Days after a controlled burn in Canadian blanketed Ballarat in smoke, Forest Fire Management Victoria will undertake an 87-hectare burn at the Nerrina Heritage Area on Sunday.
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Nearby residents and travellers on the Western Freeway are warned they may see smoke from the burn, which will be about six kilometres north-east of Ballarat.
Grampians region's assistant chief fire officer Tony English said it was a risk-reduction burn, "critical to providing the highest level of localised protection to human life, property and community assets in surrounding areas".
"Specifically, the burn is bounded by Glenisla Road to the east, the powerline easement that extends from Glenisla Road to the north, Forest Road to the west, and Boroka Street to the south," he said.
"Road closures will be in place at Glen Park and Glenisla Roads, and motorists are asked to avoid the area. Internal tracks within the heritage area, including the Nuggety Gully Dam Picnic Area, will be closed.
"We understand that smoke from planned burns may cause concerns for some people, but it is important that our crews take the opportunity while conditions are right.
"Before we undertake any planned burn, many factors and conditions need to perfectly align for a burn to be successful.
"A big part of this is measuring the fuel moisture content of a burn site, along with measurements of humidity, temperature and wind speed; we will only ignite the burn if conditions are suitable on the day.
"This planned burn contributes to a broader fuel management program for forest areas surrounding Ballarat."
People experiencing symptoms due to smoke exposure should seek medical advice or phone NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 60 60 24.