The National Park Service (NPS) has announced plans to conduct a controlled burn at Mount Rushmore National Memorial’s Starling Basin. The prescribed fire, which will cover 95 acres, is set to take place on or after October 1, 2025, if weather conditions are favorable.
The purpose of the controlled burn is to manage vegetation, reduce the risk of wildfire, and promote healthy forest ecosystems. Prescribed fires are a key tool in forest management, allowing for the safe reduction of excessive amounts of brush, shrubs, and trees, which can fuel wildfires.
The NPS will monitor the prescribed fire to ensure it’s carried out safely and effectively. Visitors to Mount Rushmore National Memorial during this time are advised to exercise caution and stay informed about the status of the fire. Further details and updates will be available on the NPS website.