BUDE — Weather conditions and fuel conditions have finally worked out for prescribed fires to start on the Homochitto National Forest. The first prescribed fire of 2025 was set to be lit Friday morning.

United States Forest Service Mississippi announced a 90 acre burn block would be ignited by hand starting at 10 a.m. Smoke will be visible by US98 and Okhissa Lake.

“No major impacts are expected. Air quality and visibility may be impacted by smoke in and near the burn area. Fire crews will be working along roads to contain this burn,” USFS Mississippi stated. “Fire crews, equipment, and engines will be working in this location today. We are asking that you please use caution when traveling in or near this area.”

USFS Mississippi prescribed burn map reports the burn is for hazardous fuel reduction. Prescribed fire has several different benefits including improved habitat for wildlife, forest health and wildfire risk mitigation.