See the burn? It’s DMR.

DMR photo.

The Mississippi Department of Marine Resources will conduct a prescribed burn on the Ansley Unit of the Hancock County Marsh Preserve today. DMR says depending on weather conditions, the burn will begin between 10 a.m. and noon and last up to six hours; however, some of the trees could smolder for much longer. The burn will take place on an 80-acre section adjacent to Ansley Road.

From DMR: “This portion of the preserve will be closed to the public during the burn and MDMR officials are encouraging residents and tourists to stay out of the area for at least a week because dead trees and debris may continue to smolder and give way after the burn is complete.”

“The prescribed fire will help remove heavy fuel loads from the ground, promote a healthy understory for wildlife habitat and function as a site prep aid for tree plantings and restoration efforts. The fire will also aid with the removal of invasive species such as Chinese Tallow, as well as increase access to infested areas for additional treatment.”