MnDOT prescribed burn planned Oct. 27 along Hwy 52 east of Harmony
HARMONY, Minn. — Motorists on Hwy 52 east of Harmony may see smoke while MnDOT crews are conducting a prescribed burn on Thursday, Oct. 27, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation.
Motorists on Hwy 52 between Harmony and Canton in Fillmore County will see warning signs as they approach the burn areas warning of the potential of smoke. Motorists should be attentive and watch for the burn crews, who are monitoring these efforts. Prescribed burns are scheduled during optimal weather conditions to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Healthy roadside vegetation is necessary for preventing weed infestations, controlling erosion, protecting water quality, and keeping roadways safe. Fire is an important aspect of vegetation management because many types of plants need fire for ideal growth. It's used in combination with mowing, herbicide application, biological control and planting in MnDOT’s Integrated Roadside Vegetation Management program.
Fire promotes tall native grasses and forbs that can trap blowing snow and can reduce drifting across the road. Native prairie vegetation is planted along highway right of way to reduce the amount of mowing needed.
Motorists should be alert for future burning efforts in southeast Minnesota. If weather conditions are good, future prescribed burns are planned this season.
For more information visit MnDOT’s prescribed fire vegetation management program website.
Motorists are urged to always be attentive, drive with caution, slow down in work zones and never enter a road blocked with barriers or cones.
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