Voluntary smoke management guidelines have been developed for forest landowners, prescribed fire technicians, and row crop farmers to provide guidance for safe, efficient prescribed burning that causes as little inconvenience to the public as possible. Recommended weather conditions to keep smoke away from populated areas and general safety tips are provided for all Arkansans who use prescribed fire as a management tool. Find guidelines below: 

Forest Industry & Landowners: Voluntary Smoke Management Guidelines 

Row Crop Farmers: Voluntary Smoke Management Guidelines and Burning Checklist

Voluntary smoke management guidelines are based on the development of a simple burn plan, which includes reporting the burn to the Arkansas Department of Agriculture's Dispatch Center (1-800-830-8015). Reporting the burn to the dispatch center provides a full understanding of weather conditions including humidity and wind, information about other burns in the area, and proximity of nearby smoke sensitive areas like schools, nursing homes, and highways. Reporting the burn also provides notice to the public. 

A voluntary smoke management guidelines outreach toolkit has been developed and contains resources, including videos, public service announcements, and social media graphics. These materials will help inform Arkansas landowners and residents about using voluntary smoke management guidelines and the benefits of prescribed fire as a management tool.