If you live near or drive by Highway 23 between Richmond and Cold Spring you may see smoke from prescribed fires today.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation says traffic should not be affected and all roadways will remain open. 

Motorists approaching any prescribed fire work zone should slow down, watch for crews, and navigate with caution. MnDOT performs the prescribed burning of grassland vegetation along many roadsides and on state owned properties, which helps with optimal vegetation health. Healthy roadside vegetation means safer clear zones, stabilizes soil, conveys runoff and treats stormwater runoff. 

Healthy roadside vegetation also provides additional benefits such as preserving populations of rare species and making roadsides more attractive. Fire also promotes tall native grasses and forbs that trap blowing snow and prevent it from drifting across the road. Native prairie vegetation is planted along highway right of way to reduce the amount of mowing needed, which saves taxpayer money.