Seeing Smoke Around Quantico? Base Conducts A Controlled Burn On Monday, March 21

QUANTICO, VA — Quantico Marine Corps Base will conduct controlled burn operations on Monday, the base announced on Facebook. The burn operations will take place on 200 acres in the western portion of the base.

The burn may cause visible smoke columns, officials said. Depending on wind conditions, smoke from the burn could drift throughout the surrounding area.

"Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs Branch at MCBQ foresters along with Fire & Emergency Services firefighters do everting within their power to manage smoke impacts from these burns and ensure the safety of residents both in and around Quantico," officials said on Facebook. "Control burn operations normally begin in February of each year and are completed by April 15."

Controlled burns can help preserve the health of an ecosystem, according to the U.S. Forest Service. Controlled burns, also known as prescribed fires, can prevent the spread of pests, recycle nutrients to the soil, and prevent the overcrowding of trees.

Prescribed fires can also prevent wildfires in the future, the Forest Service says on their website.

Have a story idea? Email me at liam.griffin@patch.com with tips, questions, comments, or concerns.