Controlled Burning along the Natchez Trace Parkway

TUPELO– Weather depending, the Natchez Trace Parkway plans to conduct the Colbert Ferry East prescribed fire between the dates of February 6 and February 13, 2016. The Colbert Ferry East prescribed fire will help reduce fuel loading around park facilities, and restore the open woodlands that were historically present. The prescribed fire is located at:

There will be no closures of visitor use facilities due to the prescribed fire. Smoke will be visible from the Colbert Ferry visitor use areas and the Tennessee River bridge, and visitors to the Parkway may encounter some light drift smoke. 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

http://www.nps.gov/natr/parkmgmt/firemanagement.htm

Media Release/Office of the Superintendent, Natchez Trace Parkway