Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest planning prescribed burns.

(Helena) The Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest is planning prescribed fire operations this week.

The Forest management estimates this work to continue through Friday as weather conditions allow, saying they use prescribed fires to help reduce overgrown vegetation to help protect local communities, infrastructure and natural resources from wildfires.

Park officials say they will evaluate weather conditions in the hours before a burn begins. If conditions warrant, scheduled prescribed fire activities may be canceled.

Residual smoke in the area can be expected for several days.