The City of Winnipeg has announced it will conduct prescribed burns in natural areas of the city starting October 30.

The City plans to carry out controlled burns until November 14, if weather conditions, such as winds, permit and an appropriate firebreak is in place.

Controlled burns are used throughout the prairie to reduce waste and return nutrients to the soil.

Additionally, the absence of fire will also allow weeds to invade endangered plant communities, according to the City.

The City of Winnipeg has used prescribed burning since 1986.