The National Park Service is planning to conduct a 35-acre prescribed burn in Big Meadows (milepost 51). A portion of Big Meadows, the open area across from Byrd Visitor Center, is burned each year for the purpose of maintaining the open vista by preventing encroachment by trees and shrubs.
A burn plan, called a prescription has been prepared, reviewed, and approved by fire experts and National Park Service administrators, which takes into account a variety of environmental factors while emphasizing the safety of park visitors, employees, and firefighters.
The burn is anticipated to take one day to complete. Smoke from the burn may be visible in and around the Big Meadows area. Visitors driving in areas of smoke should take additional care by reducing speed and ensuring their headlights are on. All park facilities will remain open during the prescribed burn. Access to the Big Meadow will be restricted during the burn.