Prescribed Burn Planned For Paynesville Monday

(KNSI) – Where there’s smoke, there’s fire, but sometimes that is alright.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation says motorists do not need to worry about any flames they may spot along Highway 23 near Paynesville on Monday. Trained crews will carry out the prescribed burn.

MnDOT uses the measure to control weeds. A fire will keep them from growing back in a way that chemicals cannot. Filling the void is preferred vegetation, which includes some species that are activated by the heat.

Another benefit of improved vegetation is better erosion control. Once the plants establish a root system, they lock the soil in place during heavy rains. Roots act as a filtration system for stormwater runoff, which improves the quality of aquifers and wells used for the drinking supply.

Each year, controlled burns are conducted along Highway 23 from Paynesville to Rockville. The agency considers weather conditions and takes other precautions to ensure the exercises are safe.

___