(KNSI) — Officials with the Sartell St. Stephen School District say residents and parents shouldn’t be alarmed if they see smoke and flames near Riverview Intermediate School on Thursday morning.
In an email, Superintendent Dr. Michael Rivard explains it’s part of a prescribed burn in the School Forest area between Riverview and Sartell Middle School. The exercise will be professionally guided and planned by Prairie Restoration Incorporated, and it is part of the district’s “environmental stewardship and educational efforts.” The primary goal is to promote the growth of native, pollinator-friendly plants essential for supporting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial species in the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ designated School Forest’s ecosystem.
The burn is set to take place between approximately 9:00 and noon.
Rivard is reassuring parents safety is the top priority for students and staff and all precautions will be taken “ensure the well-being of our students, staff, and surrounding community.”
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