Smoke in the Mountains

Looking east from Tellico Plains you get a great view of the Smoky Mountains. But lately the "smoke" has been from burning. Don't be alarmed, this is part of the Cherokee National Forest's Prescribed Burning. Here is their news release:

"The Tellico Ranger District will be conducting three prescribed burns through April 15, 2012. The burns will be in the vicinities of Brushy Ridge, Turkey Creek, and Whigg Mountain. Neighboring communities should be advised that minimal smoke may be observed during the burning operations. 

USDA Forest Service officials say prescribed (controlled) fire is a useful tool for managing National Forest lands. Approximately 20,000 acres are scheduled for burning throughout the 650,000 acre Cherokee National Forest during 2012. A significant portion of the prescribed burning is planned for early spring."

Thank you to Debra and Mike Rogers for their photography, capturing the beauty of our mountains in every condition.