DNR to burn Patoka Lake woodlands for habitat management

DNR personnel will conduct a prescribed fire on 1,228 acres behind the Patoka Lake Nature Center between now and April 15.

The date of the fire will depend on weather. On the day of the fire, operations will begin at 7 a.m. and end by 6 p.m.

Patoka, Columbia and Hall townships and surrounding communities may experience smoke.

The prescribed fire should improve oak and hickory regeneration.

The DNR conducts prescribed fires to preserve the area’s oak woodland habitat, which requires sunnier, open conditions. Without fire, competing vegetation replaces the oaks and hickories, eliminating plants and animals typical of these forests.

Hiking trails behind the center will be closed the day of fire operations.