The U.S. Forest Service is warning Marion County residents of a prescribed burn that is planned today in the Ocala National Forest.
During the prescribed burn, the Farles Prairie Recreation Area, along with the Florida National Scenic Trail between Forest Road 22 and Forest Road 30, will be closed.
The affected areas are expected to reopen on Saturday, June 10.
A prescribed burn is the controlled application of fire by a team of fire experts under specified weather conditions. The purpose of the burn is to restore health to ecosystems that depend on fire.
In addition to improving wildlife habitat, the prescribed burn helps to eliminate vegetation build up while reducing the threat of future wildfires.