On Jan. 30 some students might have seen or smelled smoke, so an email was sent out from Dos Pueblos Principal Bill Woodard to assure everyone that the smoke was from controlled burns being done by nearby ranches.

Controlled burns, or prescribed burns, are often used to prevent wildfires because they get rid of dead vegetation that could become a fire hazard.

“Controlled burns are lit for a number of reasons. By ridding a forest of dead leaves, tree limbs, and other debris, a prescribed burn can help prevent a destructive wildfire,” National Geographic said.

There are two different types of controlled burning: broadcast burning and pile burning. Broadcast burning involves lighting a fire across an area of land. This type of burning is done when there is not as much risk for a wildfire. Pile burning is collecting vegetation to be stacked and burned in a pile. This method is used when the area is at higher risk of wildfires.

“Controlled burns can also reduce insect populations and destroy invasive plants,” National Geographic said. “In addition, fire can be rejuvenating. It returns nutrients to the soil in the ashes of vegetation that could otherwise take years to decompose.”