Title/Name/Summary
2025 Resolution for Adoption of Village of Orland Park Controlled Burn Policy
History
The Village of Orland Park maintains over one hundred eighty (180) stormwater basins. Over one hundred twenty (120) of these basins are managed by the Village’s ecological restoration contractors (ERCs) who work to keep the basins in a naturalized and environmentally healthy state. This not only improves the ecological health of the basin, but the native vegetation also aids in maintaining the basin’s functionality by reducing shoreline erosion.
While maintaining native vegetation along stormwater basins, or in any location where a naturalized environment is desired, ERCs often recommend performing controlled burns on a routine basis. Regular controlled burns provide such benefits as reducing potential fuel sources for wildfires, removing invasive plant species, and reintroducing nutrients into the soil to promote the growth of desired native vegetation. ERCs typically recommend that naturalized areas undergo a controlled burn approximately once every five (5) years.
As Public Works continues to expand its list of basins under ERC management, and controlled burns become more common in the Village, a policy has been drafted to standardize the requirements for contractors who perform controlled burns within Village limits. This policy outlines the communication channels the contractor must follow when planning controlled burns and applying for permits, and establishes the on-site conditions that need to be met for a burn to be performed.
Financial Impact
None.
Recommended Action/Motion
I move to recommend to the Board of Trustees to adopt a Resolution entitled: A RESOLUTION FOR ADOPTION OF A VILLAGE OF ORLAND PARK CONTROLLED BURN POLICY.