GLEN JEAN, W.Va. (AP) — New River Gorge National River fire managers are planning several prescribed fires, beginning this week and running through May.
The plans depend on weather and include burning four units ranging in size from 5 to 45 acres (2 to 18 hectares). The area will total about 93 acres (37 hectares).
The park says fuel and weather conditions will determine the exact dates of the prescribed burns.
Prescribed fires allow fire managers to conduct a safe burn to decrease risks from wildland fire. They also allow the park to restore ecological processes and meet resource management goals.
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During the fire in the Sandstone area, smoke will be visible from Interstate 64 and the Sandstone Visitor Center will be temporarily closed for a few hours.
Information on closures and fire activity will be posted on the park’s social media sites.