Prescribed burn in Cook County. (Kelly Bougher / Forest Preserve District of Cook County)

Forest preserve districts across the region are in the middle of fire season — not combatting them, but setting them. 

A prescribed burn at Rainbow Beach. (Courtesy Chicago Park District)

The Chicago Park District has been setting its land ablaze on purpose, these fiery scenes leading to healthier natural areas.

How local forest preserves are using fire to maintain the Chicago area's natural ecosystem, much like Native Americans did prior to European settlement.