If you're in the northeastern area of Denver/northern Aurora and you're noticing a burning smell and seeing plumes of smoke coming from north of Interstate 70, rest assured: That is intentional.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife crews are conducting prescribed burns at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge. Crews began work at around 10 a.m. Thursday morning and will continue until about 4 p.m.
The smoke "will be visible for several miles from the perimeter of the refuge and people in the area may smell smoke," according to an online notice from the federal agency.
Burns could continue until Monday, Nov. 20.
Prescribed burns, according to the agency, are carried out to reduce the risk of wildfires and to "reinvigorate the growth of native prairie vegetation, reduce accumulated litter, manage efforts for weed control and improve habitat to sustain wildlife."
So if the burning smell is bugging your nose, might be good to keep your windows closed if you live nearby.
