Dyess to conduct prescribed burn on base Published Feb. 29, 2008 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Dyess environmental engineers and fire department personnel are scheduled to conduct a prescribed burn here from approximately 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Feb. 29, weather permitting. Approximately 65 acres are scheduled to be hand burned in the southeast area of the base. Winds should carry the smoke southwest from the base, away from large populations. Local residents should not be alarmed by the smoke. All safety precautions are being taken to ensure the fire is maintained and controlled. Prescribed fires reduce the fuel load - brush, sticks, small trees, and dried grass - that would fuel a wildfire; therefore reducing the likelihood of wildfires and helping to promote regeneration of low-lying plants. The wildlife also benefits from the reduction of overgrowth, and many ecosystems require periodic fire to remain in a healthy productive state. Dyess officials plan to conduct numerous prescribed burns here throughout the year.