Prescribed burns at Piney Island and Bogue

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. —The Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point Environmental Affairs Department (EAD) conducts two prescribed burns.

EAD will conduct a prescribed burn of approximately 3,000 acres of marshland on Piney Island (BT-11)

on Thursday, Jan. 12, 2023. Smoke will potentially affect Ocracoke and other portions of the Outer Banks.

Additionally, the second prescribed burn of approximately 50 acres of forested land on MCALF Bogue is scheduled for Sunday, Jan. 15, 2023. Smoke may impact portions of Emerald Isle. Some minor residual smoke may occur on Monday but will be closely monitored. For both days, ignition will begin at about 10 a.m.

The burn will be conducted by trained personnel within EAD. Local cooperators have been notified. Prescribed fire is essential to restore the fire adapted ecosystems aboard MCAS Cherry Point. Additionally, prescribed fire reduces hazardous fuel build up near the flight line, lowers the threat of wildfire, and benefits wildlife by improving habitat.

Residents should not call MCAS Cherry Point dispatch to report the fire.