Prescribed burn planned in Shawnee National Forest near New Burnside

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

JOHNSON COUNTY, Ill., (KBSI) — Crews with the U.S. Forest Service plan to conduct a prescribed burn Friday in the Shawnee National Forest.

Officials said about 171 acres will be burned at the West Tract Openland, located just east of New Burnside.

Fire crews will evaluate weather conditions before beginning the burn, and the operation may be canceled if conditions are not suitable.

Residents in the area may notice smoke during the prescribed burn. Drivers are advised to slow down and turn on headlights if they encounter smoke on roadways.

More information about prescribed burning is available at the U.S. Forest Service website, and air quality updates can be found at AirNow.gov.