Prescribed burn could reroute Bodie Island traffic this week

As part of the Outer Banks Group Fire Management Plan, a prescribed burn could be conducted during the week of April 14 in the Bodie Island District of Cape Hatteras National Seashore.  

Weather and conditions permitting, the burn unit will consist of approximately 2,220 acres located along both sides of Highway 12, north of the intersection with Old Oregon Inlet Road. 
Park visitors and neighboring communities could see smoke visible in the region of the park.  If necessary, for public safety during the prescribed burn operation, Highway 12 from Whalebone Junction to the intersection with Old Oregon Inlet Road, may be closed and traffic will be detoured to Old Oregon Inlet Road.  All roads will be signed for detours and low visibility if necessary.

The intent of the burn is to reduce fuel loading in the area, as well as to restore vegetative communities. In order to safely accomplish the burn, some mechanical reduction of fuels will be conducted to establish breaks at the north edge of the burn units about one mile south of Whalebone Junction.  

Fuel breaks have already been established along the powerline right-of-way adjacent to South Nags Head.  All additional break construction will utilize a combination of light weight, tracked rotary masticator/mower and hand tools.  Ignition will be accomplished with hand ignition along the perimeters of each area.
For more information, call 252-473-2111.