AUSTIN (KXAN) — Austin Water’s Wildland Conservation Division is expected to conduct a prescribed burn Thursday.
Prescribed burns play a role in reducing wildfire risk, as well as help maintain healthy landscapes and protect communities.
Approximately 55 acres between FM 967, FM 1626, FM 2770, FM 150, and W-RR 150 will be burned, according to the city of Austin. Smoke may be visible in the area from 10 a.m. until sunset.
“Conducting prescribed burns is one of the strategies used to manage these lands and protect groundwater in Central Texas,” said Matt Lore, Austin Water Wildland Conservation Division. “Prescribed burns improve the resiliency of our land when they are used as a planned seasonal management tool.”
The city said a team of highly trained professionals would help ensure safety during the burn.
“All personnel meet specific training, experience, fitness, and personal protective equipment requirements for the position they perform on the fireline,” the city said. “The prescription for each fire takes into account weather conditions – including wind and past precipitation – and requires specific parameters for the burn to ensure the fire behavior will meet objectives and can be safely controlled.”