Prescribed fire season underway in Huron-Manistee National Forests

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Crews from the U.S. Department of Agriculture are starting their annual burn season for the year in the Huron-Manistee National Forests.

A crew was scheduled to burn approximately 153 acres in Oscoda County’s Mentor Township on Wednesday — the first of many prescribed fires for the season.

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In a statement, the Mio Ranger District says prescribed burns are key to getting rid of “timber litter” that allow wildfires to spread faster. It also helps replenish the ecosystems for several animals.

“Prescribed fires allow fire to play its natural part in the many ecosystems on the Huron-Manistee National Forests,” Brian Stearns, a USDA forest fuels officer, stated. “Species such as white-tailed deer, turkey, butterflies, songbirds, grouse and turtles used burned areas for food, cover and a place to raise their young.”

Each prescribed burn is carefully planned, taking weather conditions, fuels and objectives into consideration.

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“Ignitions are only conducted under stringent criteria including wind speed and direction, relative humidity and temperature, fire danger and seasonal restrictions, as well as potential smoke impacts,” Stearns stated. “Prescribed fires are conducted with the safety of the public and firefighters as the highest priority. Burns will only occur when appropriate resources are available.”

Prescribed fires are planned across 11 counties this year, including Muskegon, Oceana and Newaygo Counties.

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The agency says alerts will be posted to the Huron-Manistee social media platforms to keep the public informed, along with any potential road or trail closures.

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