TN, AL, and MS: The Natchez Trace Parkway released its prescribed fire (controlled burning) schedule for 2014-2015. From December 2014 through September 2015, prescribed fire operations will be conducted at various locations along the Parkway (see table below).
Prescribed Fire Name
Milepost
Prescribed Fire Name
Milepost
MP 404 Burn Pile
404.4
Arlington WUI
260.9 - 261.1
Tobacco Farm
401.7 - 403.1
Lakeside WUI
259.9 - 260.8
MP 401 Barrens
400.9 - 401.6
Hernando de Soto
243.2 - 245.9 W
ML Hiking Trails
385.7
Monroe Mission
243.2 - 245.9 E
MP 386 Burn Pile
385.6
Chickasaw Agency
241.0 - 241.6
Old Trace Drive
375.3 - 377.5
MP 231 Burn Pile
231.2
MP 334 Burn Pile
334.0
MP 219 Burn Pile
219.1
MP 309 Burn Pile
309.5
Little Mountain
192.9 - 193.3
Tishomingo State Park
304.0 - 304.9
MP 148 Burn Pile
148.4
Twentymile Overlook
278.3 - 278.6
MP 120 Burn Pile
119.5
Need Center
265.2 - 266.5
West Florida Boundary
107.9 - 108.2
Lakeshire Woodlands
262.4 - 263.8
Boyd Site
106.7 - 107.3
Chickasaw Village
261.4 - 262.0
Rocky Springs
54.1 - 55.8
Prescribed fire is a useful and cost effective tool for managing the forests and grasslands that encompass the Parkway. Prescribed fire reduces the buildup of dead woody material, decreases the risk of catastrophic wildfire, perpetuates fire dependent vegetation, reduces exotic vegetation, provides habitat and forage for animals, and restores the natural role of fire in a healthy ecosystem.
During prescribed fire operations, smoke warning signs will be placed along the Parkway as a precaution. Motorists should travel at a safe speed with headlights on when smoke is visible. Please be aware of park rangers, firefighting personnel, and equipment along the roadway and mow line. If visibility falls below 500 feet, the Parkway may be temporarily closed until smoke has cleared. Some smoke may be visible for several days after initial prescribed fire operations have ended.
For more information about the Natchez Trace Parkway Fire Management Division, please visit
https://www.nps.gov/natr/parkmgmt/firemanagement.htm
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
