U.S. Forest Service officials are planning a prescribed burn the beginning of October near Cottonwood, depending on weather conditions.

The 40 acre burn will be on an isolated tract adjacent to U.S. Highway 14. The other three sides of the proposed burn area are cropland.

According to Wall Ranger District officials, the primary purpose of the burn is to "increase regeneration" of native shrubs and trees, thus improving widlife habitat for sharp-tailed grouse, white-tailed deer, wild turkey and other animals.

The burn will be the first in Wall Ranger District.

The Wall Ranger District office will be responsible for notifications prior to and the day of the burn, according to a news release. Local law enforcement will be notified before igniting the burn.