A prescribed burn is scheduled to take place sometime during the week of March 15 in the Arboretum at Rassie Wicker Park in Pinehurst.

The area to be burned is between McCaskill Road, Graham Road and Rassie Wicker Drive, according to a press release.

Because burns must be done when weather conditions are optimal to minimize the effects of smoke and achieve the desired effect of the burn a specific day of the week can’t be determined at this time.

Prescribed burns are done to prevent the buildup of vegetative fuels in forests in order to reduce the damage that could occur should a wildfire happen. Excess vegetation (fuel) buildup can lead to large, uncontrolled wildfires that could threaten nearby homes and property.

Prescribed burns are conducted by professionals who must submit a burn plan that includes fire and smoke control to the Division of Forest Resources.