Indiana Dunes, IN – Indiana Dunes National Park staff will conduct a 16-acre prescribed fire at the Douglas Center on Friday. The controlled burn will begin around 11 a.m. and is expected to last approximately two hours.
According to park officials, the fire will help protect the Douglas Center for Environmental Education by reducing wildfire risks. The U.S. National Weather Service forecasts favorable east-southeast winds to keep smoke off nearby roads and away from residents.
Prescribed burns are essential for maintaining the park’s natural habitat and protecting structures from potential wildfire damage. A similar controlled fire protected the Douglas Center from a wildfire in 2019.
Park visitors should expect temporary closures and are advised to stay clear of the area during the operation. Officials recommend checking local forecasts for updated weather conditions.
For more details on the importance of prescribed fires, visit the National Park Service’s website.
Be sure to follow us on Instagram & like us on Facebook to stay up-to-date on more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS!