EDDYVILLE, Kentucky – Large prescribed burns will be taking place in the Shawnee National Forest today, weather permitting.
According to the U.S. Forest Service, two are planned for today. One will be a Double Branch west of Eddyville and another will be at One Horse Gap east of Eddyville.
If winds or other elements change, burns will be postponed, and possibly other burns may be conducted instead.
Officials said prescribed burning season will continue across southern Illinois with drier weather. Prescribed fire, often called a controlled burn, has many benefits including helping maintain healthy forests and the native plants and animals they support.
A prescribed fire is a planned event that is overseen by professionals. Fire personnel carefully monitor smoke being generated during the prescribed burn. Members of the public can expect the bulk of smoke to be visible in early to mid-afternoon and dissipate before dark.