TUPELO, MS: Weather depending, the Natchez Trace Parkway is planning to conduct a prescribed
fire (controlled burn) in Lewis County, TN between April 1 and April 2. The prescribed fire is located
at:
Prescribed Fire Name Milepost
Meriwether Lewis 386
All hiking trails and visitor use areas will remain open. Visitors to the Meriwether Lewis Site could
experience smoky conditions during the burn.
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
