02/20/2026
Public Notice - Please Share!!
Hazard Reduction Controlled Burn
Lake Paul Wallace – Wednesday, February 25, 2026
The Lake Paul Wallace Authority would like to inform the public that a hazard reduction-controlled burn is planned for Wednesday, February 25, 2026, beginning at 10:30 a.m., pending a favorable fire weather report.
This controlled burn, which was requested by the LPWA, has been formally approved by the City of Bennettsville Administration and authorized by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), the owner of Lake Paul Wallace. Prior to approval, City Administration consulted with the Fire Marshal to ensure all applicable safety standards, regulatory requirements, and operational protocols are clearly established.
The burn will be conducted by the City of Bennettsville Fire Department with assistance from Marlboro County Fire. Fire personnel will oversee and manage the operation in accordance with established fire safety regulations, including weather monitoring, notification procedures, and on-site precautions.
Purpose of the Burn..
Since the May 2024 dam breach, the lakebed has remained dry and has become increasingly overgrown with vegetation. This hazard reduction burn is an important step in:
Managing excessive vegetation growth
Improving public safety
Supporting ecological balance
Preparing the lakebed for future repair efforts
What Residents Should Expect:
The burn will only take place if weather conditions meet strict safety guidelines. If conditions are not favorable, the burn will be rescheduled. Residents living along the lake banks may see brush trucks and fire personnel operating in the area.
Fire engines will be staged throughout surrounding communities as part of the safety plan.
Residents in the Lakeside, Windham Acres, Eastside, and Shady Rest communities may experience smoky conditions at times depending on wind direction. Bennettsville Primary School has been notified in advance due to the burn occurring on a school day.
This is a planned and closely monitored operation conducted by trained fire service personnel. Units will remain on scene for the duration of the burn to ensure public safety and to monitor changing conditions.
The Lake Paul Wallace Authority sincerely thanks the City Administration, the Bennettsville Fire Department, Marlboro County Fire, and SCDNR for their partnership and proactive collaboration. Their coordination and oversight help ensure this operation is conducted safely and responsibly for the benefit of our entire community.
We appreciate the public’s understanding as we continue working toward restoring and stewarding Lake Paul Wallace.
If conditions change or additional information becomes necessary, updates will be provided.
