Missouri Western State University’s biology department is planning a controlled burn of the John Rushin Teaching and Research Prairie, with the first window of opportunity set for 9 a.m. on Saturday, May 2nd. The burn may continue into the afternoon depending on weather conditions. If the burn cannot be conducted on May 2nd, the next possible date is Friday, May 8th. The purpose of the prescribed burn is to maintain the health of the prairie for research and learning purposes, providing students with practical experience. Residents are advised to close windows and stay indoors if sensitive to smoke, and traffic will be restricted on adjacent roads during the burn.