This document discusses the use of prescribed burning in the Flint Hills of Kansas. It notes that tallgrass prairie is fire-dependent and maintained by burning. About 35% of the 4.8 million acres of Flint Hills are burned annually through prescribed spring burns. Burning improves livestock grazing and controls brush. Cattle gain more weight grazing burned pastures. However, smoke from the burns can impact air quality and health. The EPA, state agencies, and cities are willing to work with agriculture to find solutions rather than impose regulations. Maintaining ecological benefits through burning while addressing smoke issues is important.