DAVIS, OKLA – Last fall, a groundbreaking reclamation burn on the property of Lance and Delana Wheelock left a lasting impact on both the community and the environment. Located just south of Davis, Oklahoma, the Wheelock’s property was intentionally burned to reclaim their land from invasive Ashe Juniper (commonly known as cedar tree) encroachment—a feat that captivated the county and drew attention across social media.
Lance and Delana began reclaiming their land in 2020, clearing over 80 acres of thick cedar that had overtaken their property. After mechanically removing the area of the cedars, the Wheelocks waited patiently for two full growing seasons to allow native grasses to reestablish, creating ideal conditions for a prescribed burn. Last October, this intensive preparation culminated in a successful reclamation burn, executed with the help of local burn association members, The Arbuckle Rangeland Restoration Association and the Davis Fire Department.
The prescribed burn, marked by a massive smoke plume visible from miles around, was a resounding success. The burn eradicated invasive cedar, allowing native grasses to flourish and providing critical habitat for local wildlife. Lance and Delana report an immediate increase in wildlife presence on their property, and they have even discovered wet weather springs they hadn’t known existed, now flowing during rainy periods. This burn has been a win for water, wildlife, and wildfire prevention.
Cole Fagen, Watershed Coordinator at the Oka' Institute, was instrumental in assisting with the project. "Helping the Wheelocks reclaim their land was a true team effort," Fagen said. "This burn wasn’t just about land restoration; it was about restoring ecological balance and reducing wildfire risk for the community. Seeing how quickly the land began to revive afterward speaks to the power of collaboration and thoughtful stewardship."
Beyond ecological benefits, this controlled burn mitigated serious wildfire risks. The area had been the target of a serial arsonist setting fires on nearby properties, prompting ongoing safety concerns. By conducting the burn under carefully managed conditions, the Wheelocks have removed significant fuel that could have fueled a disastrous wildfire in the area.
Currently, the Oka’ Institute is working on obtaining Google Earth imagery that has tracked the Wheelocks' efforts, illustrating a transformation from the property’s pristine prairie in the 1960s, through stages of cedar encroachment in the 2000s, to the recent mechanical clearing and burn. Historic imagery is featured showing the property’s evolution and the success of this large-scale conservation effort.
The Wheelocks, long-time members of the local burn association, are known for their dedication and willingness to lend a hand to neighbors in need. Lance and Delana have shared their story of how this project came to life, offering valuable insight into the reclamation process and their deep commitment to land stewardship.
This burn is more than a personal triumph for the Wheelocks; it stands as a beacon of effective land management, responsible fire control, and environmental restoration. Their story is an inspiring example of community support, careful planning, and the far-reaching benefits of proactive land conservation.
For more information on land stewardship program, visit www.okainstitute.org.
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