The Michigan Department of Natural Resources will conduct prescribed burns today in Oakland and Otsego counties to maintain habitat for various wildlife species.

Both burns are scheduled to begin around 11 a.m.

The Oakland County burn will cover 149 acres in Holly Township to maintain forest openings and understory that support the threatened massasauga rattlesnake. In Otsego County, crews will burn 160 acres in Corwith Township to preserve forest openings that benefit elk, deer and turkey.

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The DNR uses prescribed burns as a forest management tool to maintain healthy ecosystems on state-managed lands. Highly trained DNR personnel conduct the burns during appropriate weather conditions and coordinate with local authorities and government units.

Public safety remains the top priority during all prescribed burn operations. The burns may be canceled at the last minute if careful monitoring reveals unfavorable weather or wind conditions.

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Additional information about the DNR’s fire management activities is available at Michigan.gov/FireManagement.

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