DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — The City of Decatur held a prescribed burn Tuesday at its sediment storage basin east of Lake Decatur.
The burn started late Tuesday morning and was mostly wrapped up by mid-afternoon.
The fire sent plumes of thick black smoke into the air. It could be seen for several miles from all directions.
The city said the area has lots of common reed, an invasive species, that is known to create thick, black smoke.
City officials said the controlled burn was conducted by trained professionals and is aimed at reducing invasive plant species and lowering the risk of future wildfires.
There are no hazardous materials at the site and residents should not be concerned.
The property, located at 6705 Angle Crossing Road in Oakley, is owned by the City of Decatur.
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