Smoke from 'prescribed' burn could affect 4 NE Ga. counties

GAINESVILLE - A "prescribed" fire will be conducted today in Stephens County by the U.S. Forest Service.

Officials say the fire, which may lead to smoke to Banks, Franklin, Habersham, and Stephens counties, is designed to reduce hazardous "forest fire fuels" and "improve wildlife habitat."

The burn area covers 343 acres on Lathem Loop in the Currahee Mountain area and should be completed by 5:00 this afternoon.