Natchez Trace Parkway Announces Prescribed Burning For This Weekend

TUPELO, Miss. (PRESS RELEASE) –  Weather depending, the Natchez Trace Parkway and the US Forest Service, plans to conduct a prescribed fire at Hernando de Soto between the dates of March 18-19, 2016.

The Hernando de Soto prescribed fire will help reduce hazardous fuel loadings and restore the open woodlands that were historically present.

The prescribed fire is located at Milepost 243.2 – 245.9 in Chickasaw County.

There will be no anticipated closures required at the Hernando de Soto pull out during the burn.

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.