prescribed burn

Some early burning is planned near International Falls.

Voyageurs National Park says it is preparing to conduct prescribed burns over the next several weeks to eliminate invasive cattails and dead vegetation.

It is part of the park’s long-term project to improve habitat for wildlife, provide enhanced fishing opportunities, and support natural wetlands.

The park notes that hybrid cattails have invaded approximately 500 acres of wetlands, displacing native plants such as wild rice, sedges, rushes, and native cattail.

Much of the burning will take place around Black Bay and Cranberry Bay on Rainy Lake.

Additional burns will be done on Irwin Bay on Lake Kabetogama if possible.

The park says the burning will be done during daylight hours and is dependent upon ice conditions holding up to allow access.

It is asking people to avoid the areas when the burning takes place.