TUPELO, Miss–If you see smoke along the Natchez Trace in Tupelo, it’s from controlled burning. But Natchez Parkway workers say it could mess with your visibility when driving.
Natchez Trace Parkway officials tell WTVA they’ll begin prescribed burns this week near the Chickasaw Village Site along the Trace in Tupelo.
Prescribed burning, also known as controlled burning, is when park officials set fire to land for maintenance and nutrients purposes. The burning re-energizes the soil and gets rid of harmful undergrowth. The smoke from that burning could cause some problems.
Parkway workers will set the fires at the Chickasaw Village Site and at Mile Marker 260 near the West Main Intersection in Tupelo.
The Parkway won’t close unless the smoke gets too thick. Smoke warning signs will be set out. Drivers are encouraged to leave early, drive slowly, and keep the lights on during the burning. Also keep an eye out for firefighters and park workers out on the Trace as they monitor the fire.
The smoke is expected to linger for a few days after the burning is over.
