Smoke Visible From Controlled Burn at Pawnee National Grasslands

We are getting calls on the smoke out East around the Pawnee National Grasslands. This is a planned controlled burn and should be done only be a day or two.

The U.S. Forest Service started a controlled burn early today over 550 acres on the east side of the Pawnee National Grasslands. Smoke may be visible from Highway 14 and nearby communities.

The exact area being burned is located in the Simmons Allotment which is just northwest of New Raymer and about three miles north of Highway 14.

Burning on the grasslands improves wildlife habitat, particularly for the Mountain Plover, reducing the risk of wildfire, and helps reintroduce fire into the ecosystem. Ignition of the burn will only take place if soil moisture, weather, smoke dispersal and staffing are favorable. A minimum of 16 to 24 firefighters are expected to work on the burn, including three to six engines. Crews will continue to monitor the burn area until the fire is completely out - Pawnee National Grasslands/U.S. Forest Service

Sources say the burn should be out today but may continue into tomorrow. Fire crews though will stay overnight to make sure it doesn't get out of hand. All controlled burn information for the Pawnee National Grasslands are always announced on a recorded information line at 970-498-1030.

The public can also call the Pawnee National Grasslands office weekdays at 970-346-5000 and if you would like to receive daily email notifications during this burn, or any burn, please contact Reghan Cloudman.