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Will County, IL: Controlled Burn Planned Near Homes Starting Nov. 1
MANHATTAN, IL – Residents in parts of Will County are being notified about a planned controlled burn near residential neighborhoods in Manhattan that could produce visible smoke beginning as early as
By Mara Ellison · 2026-10-09T23:21:09.923Z
MANHATTAN, IL – Residents in parts of Will County are being notified about a planned controlled burn near residential neighborhoods in Manhattan that could produce visible smoke beginning as early as November, although no exact burn date has been scheduled.
According to the Village of Manhattan Public Works Department and a notice from V3 Companies, the prescribed burn is planned for the Manhattan Creek Conservation Area sometime between Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026, and Saturday, May 15, 2027.
The designated burn area covers approximately 22 acres along Manhattan Creek, extending between Route 52 and South Eastern Avenue. The conservation area runs near Brookstone Drive, Abbey Lane, Spring Street and Prairie Street.
Officials say the project will remove accumulated dead vegetation, dry leaves, fallen branches and invasive plant growth that can negatively affect the creek's surrounding wetlands and prairie habitats.
The controlled burn is intended to encourage native plant growth and improve the area's long term ecological health.
V3 Companies will conduct the burn using trained personnel under the approval of the local fire department and Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, according to the project notice.
Weather conditions, including wind direction and speed, will determine when burning can safely occur. Officials say the operation is designed to disperse smoke quickly, but unfavorable conditions could delay the project.
Residents living directly along the creek are expected to receive additional information, including a letter and map delivered to their homes.
The village cautioned that residents may receive limited advance notice because the burn schedule depends on changing weather conditions.
Anyone with respiratory sensitivities or concerns about smoke exposure is encouraged to contact project manager Keith Jones at V3 Companies at 630 724 9200 .
Residents can also contact Manhattan Public Works at 815 418 2083 .
Updates will be shared through the village's communication channels, including its Public Works Facebook page and Smart911 alerts.