PETERSBURG, Va. – The National Park Service is conducting a controlled burn off Route 36 in Petersburg Tuesday and Wednesday. People who live in the Tri-Cities have reported smelling the smoke from the burn.
“During the last two years, park staff has been clearing trees and shrubs from the Fort Stedman Battlefield so visitors can have a better view of the landscape where Civil War soldiers fought in March of 1865,” Petersburg National Battlefield Park Ranger Ann Blumenschine said. “The debris has been placed in piles just south of Union Fort Stedman. Skilled firefighters will set the pile on fire and constantly monitor the burn until the debris is gone and the fire is completely out. The public should be aware that, due to the fire, the sight and smell of smoke will exist in the area.”
