Residents may soon witness fire and smoke atop Waynesville’s high mountain peaks. However, it’s not a wildfire; rather, a series of prescribed burns will be conducted in the 8,600-acre Waynesville watershed. This area supplies clean drinking water to the town, Lake Junaluska, and surrounding regions. The burns aim to enhance forest health and water quality by restoring diversity. Forest Stewards, affiliated with Western Carolina University, presented the plan at a recent town council meeting. The North Carolina Fire Service will carry out the burns at no cost to the town. The burns are expected to start in April, pending weather conditions. Residents will be notified beforehand, ensuring a coordinated approach to safety.
