A prescribed burn is scheduled for Busse Woods today, Monday, March 23, 2026, and is managed by the Forest Preserves of Cook County. Frequently, 9-1-1 calls report smoke and fires; and area municipalities often receive questions about smoke caused from prescribed burns at Busse Woods.
Winds today are forecast from the north and northeast about 12 to 8 MPH with gusts from 30 MPH at 11:00 a.m. down to 14 MPH. There smoke or smoke odor is not likely to be an issue today in Arlington Heights. The wind is more likely to carry smoke into Elk Grove Village, Schaumburg and Itasca today.
Smoke may be visible from Arlington Heights, especially along Golf Road, Algonquin Road, Arlington Heights Road, Route 53 and in southern neighborhoods in Arlington Heights when looking in the direction of Busse Woods. Often smoke appears to be closer than it is in reality.
Wildland restoration controlled burns, also known as prescribed burns or prescribed fires, are planned, managed fires used to reduce hazardous fuel loads in the attempt to prevent catastrophic wildfires, rejuvenate ecosystems, and control invasive species, such as buckthorn, honeysuckle and other aggressive non-native species. Controlled burns are conducted primarily in spring and fall by trained crews, and promote native plant regeneration and biodiversity while enhancing habitat, according to the Forest preserves of Cook County website.
Prescribed Burn Activity Map – Forest Preserve District Cook County
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AND LATER ON WED MAR 25 2026 …
