Prescribed Burn at Knife River Indian Villages NHS

Date: May 6, 2011
Contact: Maureen McGee-Ballinger, 701-745-3300

Over 140 acres of native prairie has either been restored or is in the process of restoration. As part of the native prairie restoration process, prescribed burns will occur at Knife River Indian Villages NHS during the month of May.

National Park Service burn specialists will determine optimum conditions under which they will conduct the burn. Humidity, wind speed and wind direction are just a few of the factors analyzed during the decision making process determining the appropriate time for the initiation of a prescribed burn. Four separate areas within the national park will be included in the prescription process: North Prairie, North Terrace, Big Hidatsa East and an area directly north of the park visitor center.

"In addition to enhancing native prairie vegetation, prescribed burns increase wildlife habitat and decrease potential fuel for wildland fires," stated Chief of Interpretation and Cultural Resources Maureen McGee-Ballinger.

When optimal conditions exist for a safe burn, park neighbors, local fire departments and law enforcement agencies will be notified prior to the burn. Signs will be posted on the main park road and impacted trails. Stop at the visitor center for current fire information.

The Knife River Indian Villages NHS visitor center is open daily from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm Central Time. Knife River Indian Villages NHS trails and visitor center can be accessed ½ mile north of Stanton, North Dakota. For additional information, please contact the park at 701-745-3300.

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