In an effort to bolster wildfire defenses, the Department of Energy (DOE) and Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) Natural Resources are collaborating with the Tennessee Division of Forestry on a series of controlled burns in the Oak Ridge region. The wildfire protection activities span over the next two weeks commencing this week, and local residents can anticipate visible smoke emissions during this period, according to a recent announcement.
With safety and preservation in mind, the activities necessitate temporary trail and area closures in the East BORCE trail network and parts of West BORCE including popular spots like the North Boundary Greenway and Sinking Creek trail—the closures are set to last until September 13. On top of these measures roads accessing these locations will also be closed to facilitate the movement of heavy machinery, leaving Clark Center Park accessible only up to the west of the boat launch; the measures which were affirmed by Oak Ridge's official website, aim to allow crews to conduct storm-damage clearances, maintain firebreaks, and remove dead or problematic trees from the area.
Recreational enthusiasts and visitors should be aware that several trails and greenways will be affected by the closures — the list of impacted areas includes the Wheat Greenway, Gallaher Bend Greenway, Big Oak Greenway, Boulder Trail, Sinkhole Trail, and Gallaher Cemetery. For those accustomed to frequenting these paths, 'Area Closed' signage will be active at road entrances and numerous trailheads to notify and redirect traffic and pedestrians.
As the community braces for this disruption to local amenities, it is a critical reminder of the continuous efforts undertaken by relevant agencies to manage and mitigate potential environmental risks. Officials have indicated the importance of these prescribed fires as a tool in reducing the risk of uncontrolled wildfires and enhancing the health of forest ecosystems while promoting safety and sustainability for the community which relies upon these green spaces for recreation and respite; the inter-agency operation illustrates the proactive measures preempting the harsh realities of a changing climate and rising incidence of wildfires across the nation.
