MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) Mitchell residents planning a Halloween trip to the Custer area should be aware of a prescribed burn scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 29, pending required approvals and favorable conditions.
According to a Forest Service announcement, the Hell Canyon Ranger District plans to conduct the Antihorse prescribed fire on approximately 702 acres about 12 miles west of Custer in the Black Hills National Forest.
Smoke may be visible from nearby areas during burning operations but is expected to subside each evening. Officials say prescribed fire work may continue throughout the fall as conditions allow.
Forest closures are not anticipated, although short-term restrictions could be imposed for public safety. Visitors should watch for signs along nearby Forest Service roads and remain alert for firefighters working in the area.
The burn will proceed only if weather and vegetation moisture conditions meet requirements for safe, effective operations. Officials will evaluate conditions before ignition and throughout the burn. Activities could be postponed or canceled.
The project lies within the Jasper Fire Area, where vegetation includes grasses, burned timber and regenerating pine. The treatment is intended to reduce excess vegetation and help protect communities, infrastructure and natural resources from wildfire.
Firefighters will remain on-site during ignition and patrol afterward. Officials ask visitors not to report the announced prescribed burn.
Before traveling, check smoke and air quality information at fire.airnow.gov.