The Nebraska National Forests And Grasslands is taking advantage of the weather to burn slash piles today in the West Ash Creek area between Chadron and Crawford.
Pine Ridge District Ranger Tim Buskirk says the piles of limbs and other timber debris, mostly from thinning operations, are extremely dry and won’t be affected by the cold and snow – which help guard against any of the fires spreading.
Buskirk says smoke from the burning piles may be visible from area roads, but emphasizes there’s nothing to worry about – adding that crews will be checking on each one for the next few days.