The USDA-NRCS hosted a Delta County Conservation Tour at the Ben Franklin Community Center on Thursday, March 17. Due to a thunderstorm the scheduled prescribed burn was postpone to the following Thursday afternoon. Grazing Lands Specialist for the USDA-NRCS Matt Machacek spoke for the crowd over 30 citizens including residents, volunteer fire fighters and Delta County Extension Agent Alford Echols.
Machacek had an in-depth power point display including photos and information. He displayed several tools used in burning like water back pack, leaf blower, chainsaw, flapper, radios and weather equipment. He encourages before a prospective burn to inform the local fire department and to keep informed of the ever changing weather.
“Be sure to set up a safety zone (in area without grass) and always size up the situation,” said Matt Machacek. “One of the most important pieces of equipment is having a good map.” He also said the burn trailer can be rented by contacting the local office at 903-395-2036. He also took questions from the crowd.