(KNSI) – If you spot smoke rolling over Bend in the River Regional Park this week, put the phone down. It’s supposed to be there.
Benton County is holding controlled burns at the park today (Tuesday, October 20th) and tomorrow (Wednesday, October 21st). Crews will work on both sides of County Road 55, burning prairie and wooded areas. The park sits 1.4 miles south of Rice along River Road, which is County Road 55.
It may seem odd to fight fire with fire, but prairies actually thrive on it. According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the burns clear out dead grass and brush that could feed an unwanted fire down the road, and they make room for new growth in both the prairie and the woods.
The work is being handled by professional contractors, and the county is asking visitors to give them plenty of space while they work.
The county bought the 289-acre former farm in 2002 from the family of Carlton Graves, and it features Mississippi River overlooks, restored prairie and wooded trails.
Anyone with questions or concerns can call the county at 320-968-5000.
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