The burn area, about 5 miles west of Heflin, will be bounded in part by Forest Service Road 523, according to a release from the Forest Service. The release says drivers there will see fire crews and equipment and should use caution. Smoke also may be visible on Forest Service roads 531 and 500.
Smoke from the fire is expected to blow northeast toward the Pine Glen recreation area and the interior of the forest. Smoke may settle in the area along Alabama 9 between Piedmont and White Plains tonight as temperatures cool later today.
Controlled burns are fires set and monitored by Forest Service workers. The burns are intended to remove fuel that could lead to uncontrollable fires if allowed to accumulate. They also help to promote the growth of longleaf pines by burning away competitor species.
