Prescribed burns planned
Over the coming months, the U.S. Forest Service plans to conduct six prescribed burns in the Cheoah and Tusquitee Ranger Districts of the Nantahala National Forest in Clay, Cherokee and Graham counties. These low-to-medium-intensity burns aim to create healthier, more resilient forests that are better able to support wildlife while also reducing the risk of wildfire.
Planned burns in Cherokee County:
• Hanging Dog Campground and boat ramp, 1,000 acres.
Planned Burns in Clay County:
• Fires Creek, 8,100 acres
• Buck Creek, 350 acres
• Meeting House area, 2,100 acres.
• Shell Stand/Cook Branch area, 1,100 acres
• Cheoah Ranger District Office, 20 acres
The dates and actual units burned will depend on weather conditions. Crews will wait for proper wind and humidity conditions to conduct the burns, and burns will occur only when environmental conditions permit. Some roads or trails may be closed to ensure safety while the bur