Controlled burns continue in the Lake Russell Wildlife Management Area

The U.S. Forest Service conducts controlled burns to reduce wildfire hazards and improve wildlife habitat. (file photo - USFS)

Forest Rangers continue their controlled burns in the Lake Russell Wildlife Management Area (WMA).

The 1,321-acre Brown Bottoms and Farmer Bottoms burn units are located within the WMA
approximately 5 miles east of Cornelia along the Habersham/Stephens County line.

The controlled burns began Tuesday, with Rangers clearing debris from 1,000 acres of forest land surrounding Lake Russell.

Smoke from controlled burns in the Lake Russell WMA rises above Cornelia Wednesday afternoon, March 13, 2024. (Photo by Amber Gilbert)

The fire operations aim to improve wildlife habitat and enhance forest health. They also remove hazardous fuels such as leaf litter, dead vegetation, and debris to reduce the threat of wildfires.

Smoke is visible for miles around the burn area. Due to possible reduced visibility, motorists should use caution while traveling in and around the area.