The Georgia Forestry Commission is urging the public to use caution during prescribed burn season.
Beginning Thursday, those who want to burn forest fuels, such as shrubs or downed trees from recent flooding, may do so with a permit from the commission.
The season ends April 4.
According to a news release from the commission, prescribed burning has various benefits, including reducing hazardous fuels and preparing sites for seeding and planting.
It can also improve wildlife habitats, manage competing vegetation and control insects and disease.
Other benefits include enhancing the appearance of wooded areas and improving access by clearing unwanted plants.
Forsyth County Fire Capt. Jason Shivers said while prescribed burning is allowed in the area, it is rare and must be worked out with the commission.
He explained that it’s not the same as burning a pile of leaves or other natural vegetation, which is permitted from October through April, depending on the weather.
“It’s burning brush and grass so as to clear land for agricultural purposes,” Shivers said.
North Georgia is considered a risk area because of terrain as well as its abundance of new development, which often borders forest.
For more information, go online at http://www.gfc.state.ga.us/
Beginning Thursday, those who want to burn forest fuels, such as shrubs or downed trees from recent flooding, may do so with a permit from the commission.
The season ends April 4.
According to a news release from the commission, prescribed burning has various benefits, including reducing hazardous fuels and preparing sites for seeding and planting.
It can also improve wildlife habitats, manage competing vegetation and control insects and disease.
Other benefits include enhancing the appearance of wooded areas and improving access by clearing unwanted plants.
Forsyth County Fire Capt. Jason Shivers said while prescribed burning is allowed in the area, it is rare and must be worked out with the commission.
He explained that it’s not the same as burning a pile of leaves or other natural vegetation, which is permitted from October through April, depending on the weather.
“It’s burning brush and grass so as to clear land for agricultural purposes,” Shivers said.
North Georgia is considered a risk area because of terrain as well as its abundance of new development, which often borders forest.
For more information, go online at http://www.gfc.state.ga.us/