The Oklahoma City Fire Department will conduct a prescribed burn at Martin Nature Park today, beginning at 2 p.m. The park will be closed starting at 12 p.m. for public safety.

Approximately eight acres will be burned as part of a planned land management effort. Firefighters and staff will be on scene to ensure the fire remains controlled and fully extinguished. Residents may notice light smoke in the area. Weather conditions are ideal and will be closely monitored.

From the Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation Department: The prescribed burn will have several positive effects on the ecosystem of Martin Park. The burn will achieve several land management goals, such as fragmenting the tick population, returning nutrients to the soil, and reducing invasive species, such as Eastern red cedar trees, Johnson grass, and cheat grass.

Visitors who planned to visit Martin Park are invited to instead hike at nearby Bluff Creek Park, 10941 N. Meridian.