United States Department of Agriculture
Cherokee National Forest
November 2, 2020
Prescribed Burning Information
Prescribed Burns Planned
During the period of November 3-20, 2020, if weather conditions permit, pre- scribed (controlled) burns will be conducted in various locations in the Cherokee National Forest. Smoke may be visible in surrounding areas.
AREAS TO BE BURNED – November 3-22, 2020 Tellico Ranger District (423-397-8455)
Buck Branch (500 acres) – Located at: N 35° 20’ 32.087” X W 84° 12’ 47.729” Geographic Location: Mon- roe County. The unit is in between the Cherohala Skyway (165) and Tellico River Road.
Gravelstand (1600 acres) – Located at: N 35° 18’ 21.388” X W 84° 12’ 50.659” Geographic Location: Monroe County. The unit is in between Miller Cemetery Road, Wildcat Rd and the Bald River Road.
Ocoee Ranger District (423-338-3300)
Pace Gap Unit A (1600 acres) – Located at: N 35° 03’ 01.33” X W 84° 33’ 08.84” Geographic Location: Polk County. The unit is in between FSR 332701, Big Creek and south of Parksville Lake.
Forest USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender. Service
2020
United States Department of Agriculture
Cherokee National Forest
2020
Prescribed Fire Facts
Cherokee National Forest Prescribed Burning Program
Prescribed fire is used in the Cherokee National Forest for several reasons including:
• Hazardous Fuel Reduction: Fuels (vegetation) such as grass, leaves, brush, downed trees, and pine needles accumulate and create a fire hazard. By burning an area under favorable conditions these fuels are removed, decreasing the amount of vegetation that is available to burn during a wildfire. Reducing heavy vegetation build up helps protect communities from the threat of wildfire, as well as being beneficial to the forest.
• Wildlife Habitat: Prescribed fire promotes new sprout and herbaceous growth that serves as beneficial food and cover for many animals.
• Site Preparation: Certain trees cannot tolerate shady conditions created by other species. In areas being managed for pines, prescribed fire reduces certain types of vegetation that compete for light, moisture, and nutrients. Prescribed fire also reduces the leaf litter on the forest floor which often prevents seed germination for natural reproduction of desira- ble vegetation, including native grasses.
-USDA-
Forest USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender. Service
2020
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