Prescribed fire near Frackville seen for miles

FRACKVILLE – A prescribed burn on state game lands in Blythe Township caught the attention of residents miles away, as a massive smoke plume filled the air.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission conducted what they refer to as a prescribed fire on state game lands east of Route 61 southeast of Frackville.

A prescribed fire, according to PGC’s website, “is an organized, coordinated effort that works to apply fire at the right place, at the right time, and at the right intensity to improve the health and resilience of forests, grasslands and shrublands. The burns are conducted under precise weather conditions (i.e., the prescription) by trained crews.”

The smoke plume could be seen clearly from as far as downtown Shenandoah and Shenandoah Heights to the north, and Pottsville to the south. Pottsville Bureau of Fire was called out for a smoke investigation as a result of the plume.

According to the game commission, “Fire improves wildlife habitat and hunting opportunities by increasing soft mast production in shrubs like blueberry, huckleberry and blackberry. They rejuvenate succulent browse plants preferred by deer and elk, which promotes oak habitats, and their vitally important acorns, and maintains grasses and broadleaf plants sought by brooding turkeys and grouse. Prescribed burns also reduce the severity of unplanned wildfires by removing leaves, thick grasses, and forest debris that accumulate without regular fire.”

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Kaylee Lindenmuth

Kaylee Lindenmuth is a Shenandoah native with a passion for journalism and the community she calls home.

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