Park Plans Prescribed Burns in Cades Cove

Date: October 19, 2015
Contact: Public Affairs Office, [phone]

Great Smoky Mountains National Park fire management officials are planning a series of controlled burns within the Cades Cove area of the park. Weather permitting, burn operations could begin as early as Monday, October 26, and may continue intermittently through mid-November. Fire managers have identified multiple fields totaling approximately 300 acres for fire treatment. These controlled burns will reduce woody encroachment into the fields, help perpetuate native herbaceous species, reduce exotic plant species, and maintain the historic landscape of the cove.

During prescribed fire operations, visitors may experience brief delays due to activities adjacent to the loop road or smoke. Fire managers ask that motorists reduce speed in work zones. If smoke is present, keep windows up and headlights on, and do not stop on roadways. Staff members will be present at overlooks to answer questions during operations. 

The loop road and historic structures will remain open to visitor use but brief delays or temporary closures of adjacent roads and trails may occur to ensure public safety during operations. Visitors should expect to see fire activity and smoke during prescribed burns.