ROCKINGHAM COUNTY, VA (Rocktown Now) — The North River Ranger District is planning prescribed burns today through Sunday, April 12 near Hone Quarry and Briery Branch Reservoirs.

The fires will burn over 4,500 acres to help reduce overgrown vegetation to help protect local communities, infrastructure and natural resources from wildfires.

Possible smoke impacts to the communities and roads of Hone Quarry and Briery Branch Reservoirs, Hone Quarry campground, VA State Road 924, SR 257, VA Hwy 33, Tilgman Road, Coal Road, West Virginia HWY33, WV CR 61, WV CR 25, WV CR 24, WV CR 21, WV 220.

Hone Quarry Reservoir and Dam will be temporarily closed for the duration of the burn, along with all nearby trails, Hone Quarry Mountain (435), Heartbreak (435A) and Mines Run (435B).

The public is reminded to watch for warning signs along roads near all prescribed fire areas before and during burns.

Residents may experience smoke during the prescribed burns. Information about fires and public health, including an interactive map with current fire and air quality data, can be found here. When driving, slow down and turn on your headlights when you encounter smoke on the road.