Fire was a natural ecological factor on most Texas rangelands before European settlement, therefore, native vegetation is well adapted to burning.

Fire effectively suppresses most woody plants while encouraging grass and forb growth. However, sound range, livestock and wildlife management must accompany the use of fire if benefits are to be realized.

The most commonly recognized management objectives that can be accomplished by using prescribed fire include:

1. Improved pasture accessibility
2. Increased production of forage and browse
3. Suppression of most brush and cacti species
4. Control of selected forbs and/or grass species
5. Improved herbaceous composition
6. Improved grazing distribution of livestock and wildlife
7. Increased available forage and browse
8. Improved forage quality and/or palatability
9. Increased animal production
10. Removal of excessive mulch and debris
11. Control of certain parasites and pests
12. Improved nutrient cycling