Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie (NTP) is planning prescribed fire operations this spring, pending all required approvals.

We estimate this work to continue until April 15 as weather conditions allow. We use prescribed fires to help reduce overgrown vegetation to help protect local communities, infrastructure and natural resources from wildfires.

The Midewin NTP website, welcome center, and trailhead kiosks will have more specific information on the areas burning will occur, usually 24 to 48 hours before. We will notify county emergency management officials when burning begins.

Burn areas may close to the public for several days for public safety. Watch for warning signs along roads near all prescribed fire areas before and during burns.

Residents may experience smoke during the prescribed burns. For more detailed information about air quality, go to AirNow online or download the app. When driving, slow down and turn on your headlights when you encounter smoke on the road.

We will evaluate weather conditions in the hours before a burn begins. If conditions warrant, scheduled prescribed fire activities may be canceled.