SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) -- Prescribed burns are planned in the coming months at Mark Twain National Forest to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires.
The U.S. Forest Service says the burns in southern Missouri will reduce fuels on the forest floor from last year's ice and wind storms. The Springfield News-Leader also reported that the fires are intended to improve the forest's health and wildlife habitat.
Forest officials say people who come across the smoke while in the area should drive slowly and keep their lights on low beam.
People with sensitivities to smoke should ask the nearest ranger station to warn them before a burn.
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Information from: Springfield News-Leader, http://www.news-leader.com
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