Residents in parts of Dade County who saw or smelled smoke on Monday were witnessing a planned operation, not an emergency, according to local officials.
The Georgia Forestry Commission conducted a controlled burn involving approximately 400 acres off Hatfield Road in Rising Fawn, across from the Pilot Travel Center. The Dade County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the burn was coordinated and carefully monitored.
Officials say the prescribed burn is part of an ongoing effort to reduce dry vegetation and lower the risk of dangerous wildfires, particularly during drought conditions. Forestry officials emphasize that controlled burns are a key tool in managing wildfire risk and maintaining forest health. Even during periods of drought, trained crews can safely carry out burns when weather conditions are favorable.
March is typically the busiest time of year for prescribed burns, though unusual weather earlier in the season delayed some operations, resulting in increased activity in recent weeks.
Dade County leaders shared the information through emergency management channels to keep residents informed and prevent unnecessary concern about smoke in the area.
Residents interested in tracking prescribed burns and wildfire activity can use the Georgia Forestry Commission’s online viewer, which provides real-time information on active burns across the state.