ELKINS, W.Va., (Hinton News) — Monongahela National Forest plans to conduct a prescribed burn on two units in the Chestnut Ridge area southeast of Green Bank in Pocahontas County this week if weather conditions permit.
This 212-acre prescribed burn will benefit the savanna ecosystem, improve overall forest health and wildlife habitat, and help reduce the threat of catastrophic wildfires.
The burn area will be closed to the public on the day of the burn and may be closed for several days after to ensure public safety. Signs will be posted on nearby roads before and during burning.
Residents and Forest visitors may see and smell smoke for several days. If you encounter smoke on roads, slow down, turn on your vehicle’s lights and drive appropriately for the conditions.
Prescribed fires are conducted under specific weather conditions and are designed to accomplish pre-determined forest management goals. Monongahela National Forest follows strict guidelines for conducting prescribed burns, and takes into consideration environmental factors such as temperature, humidity and wind. If environmental conditions are not within limits, the burns will be postponed.
Local radio stations will be alerted to burn activities ahead of time. Check https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/ for updates and a map of the area. Updates will also be posted on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MonongahelaNF. For more information call the Greenbrier Ranger District at (304) 456-3335.
