The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest will be the scene for prescribed fire operations for the next three months as conditions allow, including one for nearly 700 acres in Habersham County.
“We use prescribed fires to help reduce overgrown vegetation to help protect local communities, infrastructure and natural resources from wildfires,” according to the following advisory from the U.S Forest Service (USFS) office in Gainesville:
“Oconee Ranger District:
• Compartment 1-3 includes 1,269 acres located in Jones County, 10-miles west of Gray, Ga.
• Compartment 5-6-7 includes 880 acres located in Jones County, East of Jarrell Plantation Road
• Smoke may be visible near US Highway 23.
• Map: https://arcg.is/1uyO4P8
Chattooga River Ranger District:
• Tugalo Village includes 675 acres located 1-mile south of Tallulah Falls State Park in Habersham County.
• Map: https://arcg.is/118r583
Conasauga Ranger District:
• Dry Creek includes 1049-acres located in Dry Creek Recreation area on East Armuchee Road, at the Chattooga, and Walker County Line
• Map: https://arcg.is/1OCj8q1
These low-intensity, planned fires will reduce hazardous fuel buildup, lower the risk and consequences of future wildfires, and help maintain healthy, fire-adapted conditions on the landscape.
During operations, fire crews and equipment will be present in the area. Smoke may be visible at times. Visitors are encouraged to use caution near the burn perimeter.
Track prescribed fire work across the Southern Region using the Prescribed Burn Accomplishment Tracker: https://arcg.is/nmXrr2“