Controlled Burn Helps Reduce Tennessee Wildfire Danger

Last April, East Tennessee experienced a significant drop in air quality as well as an accumulation of thick smoke in the sky. Fortunately for residents, the situation was only temporary, the result of several controlled burns designed to help reduce fire danger throughout the state.

Controlled Burn Locations

Starting on Monday, April 5, the US Forest Service began conducting controlled burns in Monroe County. The following day, they began additional burns in the counties of Blount, Claiborne, Union, Morgan, and Scott. Another controlled burn also occurred on the Oak Ridge Reservation.

During the burns, smoke settled into the Tennessee Valley, with an especially heavy concentration found in Maryville, South Knoxville, and around the Seven Islands. Smoke accumulation was enhanced by the weather, which was cold with light winds. However, while the light wind meant the smoke stayed in the valley, it also helped increase the overall safety of the burn. If the wind is too strong, the fire can potentially spread beyond the controlled area.

The Benefits of Controlled Burns

Even when the weather is calm, controlled burns do pose some risks, but they are outweighed by the benefits. Burning excess brush, shrubs, and trees helps reduce the instance of wildfires. During the burns, the Tennessee Division of Forestry targets kudzu, privet, and honeysuckle as much as possible.

Clearing away that type of vegetation helps native American grasses thrive. Restoring the habitat in this way also allows wildlife to return to the area. Specifically, residents are attempting to encourage the return of the bobwhite quail, a resident species that has seen diminishing numbers in recent years.

The Future of Prescribed Burns in Tennessee

Although the controlled burns in early April garnered a fair amount of media attention due to the smoke accumulation, they are not the only controlled burns scheduled for the year. Prescribed burns occurred later in the week, with additional burns planned as well.

“It is important for hikers and anyone who enjoys spending time outdoors in Tennessee to be aware of when and where controlled burns will occur throughout the state,” said Attorney David Gordon of the Law Office of David E. Gordon. “While National and State Park Service workers try to keep everyone safe and aware, the general public must also perform their due diligence to avoid smoke, flames, and other potentially dangerous situations.”

To help increase public awareness, the state partners with the EPA and the US Forest Service to post updated information on fires, smoke plumes, and air quality. For example, fire.airnow.gov allows Tennessee residents to view ongoing burns, both controlled and otherwise.

Even residents who are not planning to spend time in the wilderness need to know when prescribed burns will occur. Smoke from the burns does pose potential health hazards, especially to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory issues. At-risk individuals are encouraged to stay inside whenever smoke is prevalent in their local area.

Final Thoughts

While prescribed burns can result in unwanted smoke accumulation, they ultimately help protect residents from wildfires while also encouraging the development of healthy vegetative growth and the reintroduction of local wildlife. As long as Tennessee residents stay informed about upcoming controlled burns, they can remain safe and healthy, and enjoy the natural beauty the state has to offer.