05/05/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 5, 2026
(UPDATED BURN UNIT LOCATION AS OF MAY 8, 2026)
W.G. Jones State Forest Prescribed Burn Notice
Conroe, Texas – Texas A&M Forest Service will be conducting a prescribed burn at W.G. Jones State Forest on Monday, May 11, 2026, weather permitting.
This prescribed burn is part of standard forest management efforts to restore native species' habitats, reduce excessive undergrowth, and enhance community safety by lowering the risk of severe wildfires.
The burn will also support the Texas Interagency Wildfire Academy, a collaborative training program that brings together firefighters and fire managers from multiple agencies to gain hands‑on experience with wildland fire operations. This training is critical for improving wildfire preparedness, building interagency coordination, and ensuring safe, effective fire response across Texas.
Additionally, the Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management will be present during the prescribed fire conducting a drone training exercise.
The burn is planned to take place between I‑45 and State Highway 242, south of FM 1488, within the boundaries of W.G. Jones State Forest.
Objectives:
Reduce vegetative fuel to help prevent wildfires
Improve safety through increased access and visibility
Enhance wildlife habitat by increasing sunlight to the forest floor
Support interagency wildfire training and operational readiness
W.G. Jones State Forest
1328 FM 1488 Road
Conroe, TX 77384
Latitude: 30°13'41.3"N
Longitude: 95°29'25.7"W
Texas A&M Forest Service will notify surrounding city and fire officials, residents, and forest users through email notifications and posted signage in nearby rights‑of‑way. Firefighters and equipment will be on site to ensure the burn is conducted safely.
For public safety, select areas of the forest will be temporarily closed during the operation. Smoke may be visible in nearby areas during and shortly after the burn.
