The Pennsylvania Game Commission has announced plans to conduct a prescribed fire on Monday, May 12, 2025, in State Game Lands (SGL) 326 located in Butler Township, Schuylkill County.
The 60-acre controlled burn will take place north of Interstate 81 and south of the powerline that crosses the game lands.
According to the Game Commission, the prescribed fire is part of a long-term habitat management effort aimed at maintaining pitch pine forest by reducing the growth of less fire-tolerant species such as maple and birch. The fire will also help boost wildlife food sources in the area by promoting new, nutritious plant growth.
Smoke from the fire will likely be visible throughout the day from nearby areas, including Gordon Mountain and the communities of Frackville, Gordon, and Girardville. The burn is scheduled to occur between 9:30 a.m. and 8:45 p.m.
The Game Commission emphasized that the fire is being carried out by trained professionals and urged the public not to attempt such burns without proper certification and experience.