Turnbull planning controlled burns

CHENEY – The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will conduct controlled burns at Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge during the fall and winter months. These burns started Friday, Oct. 13.

Turnbull officials said burning will start this month and continue through February, weather permitting.

The purpose of the fires is to reduce “fuel,” such as downed timber and dry grass and sagebrush, to help alleviate the potential for future wildfires.

This will reduce the risk of wildfires on the refuge, and will also contribute to habitat restoration.

During burns, officials said smoke will likely be visible...