The 15th Annual Central Texas Wildfire Academy began Thursday, educating firefighters about wildland fire control and helping to perform a large prescribed burn at Camp Bowie, the site of the academy.  The academy strives to offer a variety of training for all those dedicated to protecting lives and property.

According to Chris Weber of the Dam Volunteer Fire Department of Lake Brownwood, the prescribed burn will take place on Sunday, February 14th and will burn approximately 1000-1500 acres of the property, sections 15 & 18 of the camp.  Controlled burns actually prevent fires, said Weber who explained that burning off dense vegetation helps to limit spreading of future wildland fires.  This burn not only helps the camp, but also provides an educational experience for firefighters, including many local firemen.  There will be 8-10 fire trucks working this burn during the training, said Weber.

Weber addressed the Brown County Commissioners Court during Monday’s meeting to obtain burn permits for the academy training and to let civilians throughout the county know of the burn ahead of time.  These two sections are mostly well within the interior of the camp; however, preparatory work with dozers clearing boundaries by making fire breaks, ensure that the burn will be kept within the camp, protecting adjacent privately owned land.

Texas Forest Service Task Force 7 is based in Brownwood will also be involved in the burn and preparatory work, according to Weber.

Approximately 50 firefighters have registered for the academy, which will be run by approximately 50-55 staff. Four classes will be taught during the academy, which includes basic wildland fire fighting, firing operations, mini wildland engine and tender shuttle (supplying water to fire trucks).

Pictured above is a prescribed burn during a previous academy.