MoWest biology department to conduct controlled burn

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- Missouri Western State University's biology department is set to conduct a controlled burn of the John Rushin Teaching and research Prairie.

While the timing of the burn depends on weather conditions in the near future, MoWest said its first window of opportunity is 9 a.m. on Saturday, May 2. Burning may continue into the afternoon, depending on the weather conditions and progress.

If MoWest is unable to conduct the burn on Saturday, the next possible date is Friday, May 8.

Prescribed burns are meant to maintain the health of the prairie land to ensure it remains useful for research and applied learning. It will also provide wildlife conservation management students with real-world skills and experience.

MoWest advised residents to close their windows during the period of the burn. Anyone in the immediate vicinity who may be sensitive to smoke are advised to remain indoors.

Traffic will also be restricted on 50th and Messanie Streets, which are roads adjacent of the prairie. Scanlon and Vartabedian lots will still be accessible.