Burn planned

The Bureau of Land Management plans to conduct a prescribed burn this fall near the South Dakota-Wyoming state line in Weston County, according to a Sept. 19 press release.

The agency said that about 120 acres will be burned within the Sherwood Canyon area along Beaver Creek Road. Burning could begin as early as October, after fire restrictions are lifted, and may continue throughout the fall as weather and fuel conditions allow.

The BLM is coordinating with nearby landowners to thin Rocky Mountain juniper, reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire, increase forage for livestock and wildlife, and improve the health of ponderosa pine forests. The project is part of a multiyear effort to improve stand growth and wildlife habitat in the area.

Officials said that all burns will follow approved plans emphasizing public and firefighter safety. Smoke may be visible at times.