Controlled Burning along the Natchez Trace Parkway West Florida Boundary

Date: January 27, 2015
Contact: Travis Neppl, 662-401-5288

TUPELO, MS: Weather depending, the Natchez Trace Parkway plans to conduct two prescribed fires (controlled burns) in Madison County, MS between the dates ofJanuary 29 and January 31. The prescribed fires are located at:

Prescribed Fire Name	Milepost
West Florida Boundary	108
Boyd Site	107

The parking areas at both the West Florida Boundary and Boyd Sites will be closed during the burns. The National Scenic Trail will also be closed at the West Florida Boundary during the burns.

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