There are more than 100 prescribed burns planned for Michigan national forest land this spring and summer, officials announced.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service announced that the prescribed burns are planned for the Huron-Manistee National Forests, pending required approvals.
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Officials expect the work to continue through September, depending on the weather.
There are 104 prescribed fires currently planned for the Huron-Manistee National Forests. Click here to see what areas the fires are planned for, by county.
There are also prescribed burns planned for the Hiawatha and Ottawa national forests. Officials said the prescribed fires include the following:
- 10,082 acres in 44 units on the Hiawatha National Forest
- 1,143 acres in 14 units on the Ottawa National Forest
For the latest updates, click here.
“Prescribed fires reduce risk to the public by removing hazardous vegetation to mitigate wildfires and prevent loss of property,” according to the USDA Forest Service. “They also help to re-establish fire’s positive role in local ecosystems, increase native plant regeneration and improve wildlife habitat and forest health.”
Officials said prescribed burn operations may produce visible smoke and flames that can be seen from nearby roads and in communities located downwind of the burn area. During active burning periods, residents in surrounding areas may also notice smoke in the air.
Motorists traveling near burn sites are urged to use caution. If anyone encounters smoke on the roadway, they should reduce their speed and turn on their headlights to improve visibility and safety.
Officials said residents may also come across temporary roadblocks, specially trained fire crews and heavy equipment, like fire engines and bulldozers, in the area.
Firefighters will monitor the prescribed burn areas in the days following.
Scheduled burns could be canceled due to weather conditions. Visit the 2026 Huron-Manistee NFs Spring/Summer Prescribed Fire Season page for the latest updates.