RAPID CITY, S.D. (KOTA) – Forest management is crucial for a healthy ecosystem, but also helps prevent disastrous wildfires like those seen this summer, which is why rangers in the Black Hills National Forest have focused on prescribed burns while the weather permits.

Scott Jacobson, public affairs officer for the Black Hills National Forest, said the conditions have been excellent for burns.

These “just right” conditions are somewhat fleeting, with the requirements for prescribed burns steep for safety purposes.

Taking advantage of the conditions, Jacobson said the most recent prescribed burns, the Long Draw and Beartown projects, have been successes.

Smoke from the burns may impact some Hills communities, but the burns are performed in such a way to minimize the risk to the public.