PEDRO — The Wayne National Forest will be doing spring prescribed fires in more than 2,000 acres in three areas until May 30.

Wayne National Forest Supervisor Lee Stewart said the prescribed burns include efforts from employees across various programs and disciplines, and that this management tool helps ensure a healthy forest for future generations.

“Prescribed burns are coordinated exercises that bring together firefighters, fuels specialists, botanists, archaeologists, wildlife biologists and other experts. Employees undergo extensive training to make sure burn operations consider impacts on wildlife, plants and local communities as they are carefully planned and executed,” Stewart said. “These treatments help maintain and improve the forest. Without prescribed fire, leaf litter and underbrush would build up over time and hinder oak growth.”

As an oak-dominated forest, the Wayne uses prescribed fire as a management tool to help oak trees outcompete other species like maple and beech, which thrive in shady conditions. These prescribed burns will clear out accumulated dead leaves, branches, logs, and underbrush, and help remove some of the small diameter tree species that compete with the oaks and other desirable tree species.

Oak-dominated ecosystems serve as major habitats and food sources for wildlife. Additionally, a varied forest landscape increases biodiversity in the area.

Unless otherwise specified, crews will use traditional ground-based ignition methods to conduct prescribed fires.

Planned burn unit locations and acreages in the Ironton Ranger District are as follows:

• Pine Creek, Units C, D, I, J

Size: 1,952 acres.

Location: Lawrence County, Decatur Township, near FS Road 132 and Howard Ridge.

Aerial Ignition: Yes, via helicopter or unmanned aerial system (UAS).

• Sunny Oaks, Unit 10

Size: 262 acres.

Location: Gallia County, Perry Township, near Symmes Creek Road.

Aerial Ignition: Yes, via UAS.

• Sunny Oaks, Unit 11

Size: 162 Acres.

Location: Gallia County, Perry Township, near Woodside Road.

Aerial Ignition: No.

Exact burn dates will be determined based on weather conditions, fuel types, terrain and relative humidity. The Forest will provide advance notices to the public via its Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/waynenationalforest. Local fire departments and emergency management agencies will be made aware of operations.

The public should avoid the burn areas and drive slowly during prescribed fire operations. The forest may establish a temporary flight restriction over the burn area to protect aircraft performing official duties. 

All unauthorized aircraft, including drones, will be prohibited from flying over the area during this time to prevent interference with air support operations.