CASS LAKE — Chippewa National Forest fire crews plan to conduct prescribed fires in the Lydick Brook and West Winnie units, starting as early as Saturday, May 13.
Exact dates of operations are dependent on current and forecast local weather conditions.
The Lydick Brook unit, scheduled for Saturday, is approximately 35 acres and located on Forest Road 2348, 2.5 miles north of US Highway 2.
On Sunday, crews plan to conduct operations on the West Winnie unit, approximately 170 acres and located on Forest Road 2188, west of Lake Winnibigoshish.
Operations by fire crews will reduce the potential for wildfires by reducing hazardous fuel loads, a news release stated. In addition, prescribed fire restores a once occurring natural process for which ecosystems rely on for plants, such as blueberries.
Smoke may be visible to area residents and visitors during prescribed fire operations. Smoke may drift across roads adjacent to the burn area. If smoke is encountered on the roadways, drivers should slow down and turn on the vehicle lights, the forest service stated. In addition, drivers in the area of prescribed fire operations should drive with caution and be aware of fire crews and equipment.
Prescribed fires are conducted under specific weather conditions and are designed to accomplish pre-determined forest management goals. Chippewa National Forest fire staff follow strict guidelines for conducting prescribed burns, and take into consideration environmental factors such as temperature, humidity and wind, the release stated. If any environmental conditions are not within limits, the operations will be postponed.
Direct questions regarding the prescribed fires to Blackduck Ranger District at 218-835-4291.
For information about the Chippewa National Forest, visit fs.usda.gov/chippewa.
