The massive fire that broke out in Prospect Park earlier this month has caused significant damage that will take years and hundreds of thousands of dollars to repair. The blaze enveloped 2 acres near the park’s Nethermead meadow, setting a section of native forest on fire. A firefighter was injured while battling the blaze and had to be hospitalized.
According to the Prospect Park Alliance, the restoration work could take up to three years and cost as much as $275,000. This estimate includes clearing debris, stabilizing slopes, implementing erosion control measures, and seeding and replanting with native climate-adapted species over the next three years. The final cost could be lower if large canopy trees do not need to be uprooted and replaced.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation by the city fire department, and remnants of an apparent encampment were found at the burn site. The fire occurred during a historic drought in the city, leading to over 371 brush fires in 2024, the most ever recorded in a calendar year.
As the alliance continues to assess the damage to trees in Prospect Park, the true extent of the damage will become clearer next spring when the trees emerge from winter dormancy. Despite some recent rain, the city remains under a drought warning, emphasizing the need for continued conservation efforts. The alliance is working diligently to restore the park to its former beauty and ensure that it remains a cherished green space for all to enjoy.
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Photo credit gothamist.com