Forest Service to start burns in Jackson, Brown counties

The U.S. Forest Service will begin seasonal prescribed burns soon in the Hoosier National Forest.

Jackson and Brown counties are among seven counties who will see the fires.

The agency says that fires are used to maintain, restore or improve habitat for wildlife, to maintain wetlands, to restore and maintain unique barren communities, and to restore oak-hickory dominated ecosystems. Areas being considered for burning this fall have signage placed in advance. The forest service will notify nearby residents and businesses one to two days beforehand.

You can expect to see smoke from the fires. If smoke is over a roadway, you should reduce you speed and turn on your headlights.

Areas designated for burns are closed to all public entry, including hunting, on the day of the burn and until the area is considered safe. For your safety, if you are planning to camp or hunt in an area near a prescribed burn, you should contact the Indiana Interagency Coordination Center Dispatcher. You can call 812-547-9262).