Prescribed Fire near Blairsville

On Monday, April 19, 2021, the Blue Ridge Ranger District is applying prescribed fire to an area located approximately 9 miles SW of Blairsville in the Cooper Creek area. Depending on conditions this #GoodFire could consist of up to 4,600 acres.  Objectives include hazardous fuel reduction, healthy forest restoration, and wildlife habitat improvement.  The prescribed fire covers the western half of the Coopers Creek Wildlife Management Area and includes portions of the Duncan Ridge Trail. Smoke may be visible along the Hwy 515 corridor from Blue Ridge to Blairsville, and along Highway 60 from Wilscot Gap to Woody Gap.  Motorists are advised to use safe speeds and caution on any roadways if smoke is present.  The Duncan Ridge Trail is closed from the Benton Mackaye Trail at Rhodes Mountain to Bryant Gap until the trail has been deemed safe for hikers to return.