WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, W.Va. (WVDN0 – Monongahela National Forest plans to conduct a prescribed burn the Brushy Mountain area near Mapledale in Greenbrier County on Wednesday, April 26, if weather conditions permit.
This 140-acre prescribed burn will increase successional habitat within the project area by increasing open and brushy habitat that provides nesting, foraging, and cover habitat and young forests for wildlife such as ruffed grouse, wild turkey, and small mammals. The project will also 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 visitors may see and smell smoke for several days. If you encounter smoke on the highway, 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 any environmental conditions are not within limits, the burns will be postponed.
Local radio stations will be alerted to burn activities ahead of time. When burning begins, additional information will be available at https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/.
For more information contact the Marlinton-White Sulphur District Office at 304-799-4334.
