Heavy smoke south of Brownwood caught a lot of attention Monday afternoon.  Huge plumes of smoke billowed from the hills.

Texas Forestry Service announced early last week that a controlled, or prescribed, burn would be initiated in conjunction with the 9th Annual Brownwood Wildfire Academy that was held over the weekend at Camp Bowie.  During this school, 48 firefighters from across the Big Country learned how to battle wildfires.

The academy demonstrated basic wildland firefighting. Participants took courses and had hands on training with water shuttles and emergency vehicle operations.  Lake Coleman Firefighter, Ken Thibodeaux, said the extra training makes him more confident. “The more you get out there and practice, the more you’re gonna make sound decisions,” he said.

Thibodeaux said the knowledge he learned is invaluable. “There are guys here that have been on over 25 years.  Getting the chance to talk and work with them is amazing.”

Jan Amen from the Texas Forrest Service said the training couldn’t have come at a better time. “There have already been 23 firefighters die in the line of duty so far this year.  We’re only in February.” Amen went on to say the extra training will help the firefighters stay safe and possibly avoid another fallen firefighter.

Firefighters from the area continue to assist the crews at Camp Bowie. Monday afternoon, emergency dispatchers were receiving many calls from concerned citizens when another call from firefighters at Camp Bowie came in stating, “We have a big plume of smoke at Camp Bowie but we have it completely under control, just in case you get any calls.”

Although the school was completed this weekend, if conditions are favorable the burn may continue for several days according to information from Camp Bowie officials.  Over 1000 acres are to be burned during this controlled fire.

By conducting prescribed fires under appropriate conditions, Camp Bowie is showing its commitment to being a good land steward.  The Texas Army National Guard is working together with the Texas Forest Service to accomplish the task of wildfire risk reduction for the community.

Pictured above and below are views of the fire late Monday afternoon.

View from Bangs Hill on Hwy 67.