Prescribed burn underway at Orton to support longleaf pine habitat

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — A large-scale prescribed burn is underway Monday at Orton as part of ongoing efforts to restore and protect the region’s longleaf pine ecosystem.

Orton Plantation is conducting a permitted burn across approximately 403 acres, with operations scheduled to begin at 10:30 a.m. and conclude around 6 p.m., according to officials.

The controlled burn is part of a long-term forest management plan aimed at improving overall forest health and restoring longleaf pine habitat, a fire-dependent ecosystem native to the Cape Fear region.

Experts say longleaf pine is uniquely adapted to fire, even at early stages of growth. Without periodic burns or other management practices, the species struggles to compete with faster-growing vegetation. In some cases, seedlings can remain in a “grass stage” for years until fire helps clear surrounding growth.

Fire crews overseeing the burn are following strict safety protocols, including the use of established firebreaks such as roads and fire lines, along with water resources to contain the flames. Officials say weather conditions were carefully evaluated before moving forward, and experienced local fire and safety personnel are on site throughout the operation.

The prescribed burn is part of a broader conservation effort involving both public and private partners to strengthen the resilience of longleaf pine ecosystems across the Southeast.