Controlled Burns Set For Parkway

PRESS RELEASE

TUPELO, MS: Weather depending, the Natchez Trace Parkway plans to conduct two prescribed fires (controlled burns) on Monday, November 23 and Tuesday, November 24, 2015. The Tockshish prescribed fire will help to restore native black prairie and reduce vegetation along the parkway boundary that could burn in a wildfire. The Blackbelt Overlook prescribed fire will help to remove vegetation that is blocking the scenic vista. The prescribed fires are located at:

Prescribed fire is a useful and cost effective tool used to manage 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