Arkansas Democrat-Gazette (Little Rock)
Copyright 2006 Little Rock Newspapers, Inc.
GLENWOOD, Ark. — A wildfire in the Ouachita National Forest had burned more than 3,200 acres by Tuesday, officials said.
About 40 firefighters were monitoring the fire, which lightning ignited June 26 in a remote area of the forest about 15 miles northwest of Glenwood on Sulphur Mountain.
The Forest Service is letting the fire burn, within set perimeters, to help clear out dry brush and broken tree limbs damaged in ice storms several years ago. Wildlife officers say that fire plays a crucial role in forests, fueling new growth along the forest floor on which animals such as deer thrive.
Officials say letting the fire burn will save money as well.
This marks the first time the Forest Service has used such a technique in any of the national forests in the southern region, which includes 13 states and Puerto Rico.
The fire is expected to consume about 4,000 acres before it peters out late this week, officials have said.
Forest Service Roads 517, 517A and 99 remain closed until further notice.