Controlled Burning along the Natchez Trace Parkway

TUPELO, MS: Weather depending, the Natchez Trace Parkway is planning to conduct four prescribed fires (controlled burns) in Lee County, MS and Pontotoc County, MS between the dates of January 21 and January 24. The prescribed fires are located at:

Prescribed fire is a useful and cost effective tool for managing the forests and grasslands that encompass the Parkway.  Prescribed fire reduces the buildup of dead woody material, decreases the risk of catastrophic wildfire, perpetuates fire dependent vegetation, reduces exotic vegetation, provides habitat and forage for animals, and restores the natural role of fire in a healthy ecosystem.

During prescribed fire operations, smoke warning signs will be placed along the Parkway as a precaution.  Motorists should travel at a safe speed with headlights on when smoke is visible.  Please be aware of park rangers, firefighting personnel, and equipment along the roadway and mow line.  If visibility falls below 500 feet, the Parkway may be temporarily closed until smoke has cleared.  Some smoke may be visible for several days after initial prescribed fire operations have ended.

For more information about the Natchez Trace Parkway Fire Management Division, please visit

http://www.nps.gov/natr/parkmgmt/firemanagement.htm

About the National Park Service. More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America’s 401 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Learn more at www.nps.gov.