Public Safety · Custer, SD
The U.S. Forest Service plans the Antihorse prescribed burn covering approximately 702 acres in the Jasper Fire area, about 12 miles west of Custer, South Dakota, on Oct. 29. The operation aims to reduce overgrown vegetation and lower wildfire risk to nearby communities, infrastructure, and natural resources. Smoke may be visible from nearby communities during the day but is expected to disperse by evening. Temporary closures of nearby forest roads may be implemented if needed, and residents are asked not to report the planned burn as certified fire specialists will be on scene.
Public Safety
South Dakota Wildland Fire officials caution Black Hills landowners that snow cover can melt quickly, making slash pile burning unsafe even with valid permits for the Nov. 1 through March 31 season. Small piles (6 feet wide by 6 feet tall or smaller) require at least 2 inches of continuous snow cover; larger piles require 6 inches, and burning is prohibited during wind advisories, fire weather watches, or red flag warnings. Seth Stevens, assistant fire management officer for the Hot Springs District, warned that escaped piles can reignite months later when embers settle into pine needle beds. Landowners must contact their local county dispatch center before igniting a pile and may face financial liability for suppression costs if a fire escapes.
