If you see smoke off in the distance near Boulder Beach at Lake Mead National Recreation Area over the next few days, do not be alarmed. The National Park Service has announced that they will be eradicating some dead and invasive vegetation near the Nevada Department of Wildlife’s Fish Hatchery.
By removing this material, the NPS hopes to improve habitat and biodiversity along the wash between the fish hatchery and the lake. Jeremie Gamiao, Assistant Fire Management Officer for Lake Mead NRA stated, “By removing dead and highly adapted invasive plants, like tamarisk, this prescribed burn will reduce the competition for native plants to thrive.”
No closures are planned for this activity but people using the lake should be aware of the reason for smoke in the area. If you will be traveling along Lakeshore or Northshore Roads, you may see smoke, active fire, and firefighters managing the burn area. Always follow the instructions of the on scene personnel in these areas.
For those concerned about the smoke, the impacts should be minimal. You can learn more about the air quality and smoke by visiting HERE.