The Game Commission plans to resume controlled burns on the Scotia Barrens on State Game Lands 176 in Patton, Ferguson and Halfmoon townships, Centre County, to improve habitat conditions within this unique ecosystem.

Depending on conditions, the Game Commission plans to burn up to five units totaling 340 acres. The potential burn window is approximately April 7 to May 24.

The purpose is to restore the pitch pine/scrub oak ecosystem on the Scotia Barrens.

Controlled burns are used by the Game Commission on game lands statewide to improve plant and wildlife habitats, and reduce the chance of wildfire.

Game Commission Bureau of Wildlife Habitat Management director William Capouillez noted that residents might see or smell smoke emerging from the Scotia Barrens during the burning.

“People become upset when there is smoke in the air if they don’t know the reason for the fire,” Capouillez said. “That’s why we’re trying to get the word out about controlled burning. If we carefully plan and conduct a burn when weather conditions favor smoke dispersal, this reduces smoke-related problems. Dealing with a little bit of smoke now is infinitely better than dealing with a wildfire later.”

Local media contacts will be made within 24 to 48 hours of potential burn days to keep local residents informed.

State Game Lands 176 currently contains 6,231 acres in Ferguson, Half Moon and Patton townships.

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4/14/2014