FORT PIERRE, (KCCR) — The U-S-D-A Forest Service is planning a series of prescribed burns in the Fort Pierre National Grasslands this spring. Up to seven burns could be held on the Grasslands in Jones and Lyman Counties from mid-April to late-May. The burning will only be conducted under favorable weather and fuel conditions. The goal of the burns are to enhance the amount of and variety of native grasses and plants, improve wildlife habitat, enhance livestock forage and mitigate fuel consumption. Smoke from the fires may be visible from U-S Highway 83, Interstate 90 and the cities of Draper, Fort Pierre, Kennebec, Murdo, Pierre, Presho and Vivian. Adjacent landowners, visible homeowners and law enforcement will all be notified of the burns before they begin. USDA officials expected a number of local volunteer fire departments to assist in the efforts. Anyone with questions about the prescribed burns can contact the Fort Pierre Ranger District at 605-224-5517.
