Joint Base Charleston plans managed burn in timber

JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) — Natural resource officials at Joint Base Charleston are conducting a managed burn in timberlands on part of the installation.

Air Force officials say residents nearby may see smoke during the burns Friday and Saturday. The woodlands are located in southern Berkeley County between the city of Goose Creek and the Bushy Park industrial area.

Officials stress that the burn will be managed by trained natural resources professionals. The fires are coordinated with the South Carolina Forestry Commission and with federal and municipal fire departments.

The burn is being conducted to prevent wildfires by reducing natural fuel loads present in the woods. It also helps manage timber and wildlife habitats, encourages ecosystem restoration and helps suppress forest diseases and pests.