DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA) — March 26 is the new date the City of Decatur plans to hold a prescribed burn at the sediment basin, after it was previously postponed.

The burn will take place near Oakley at the sediment storage basin. It was originally supposed to happen on March 17, but ended up being postponed because conditions did not allow for the burn to take place as anticipated.

This burn is designed to decrease fuel for a potential wildfire and manage the vegetation inside the basin. Additionally, care will be taken to ensure safety and minimize smoke from blowing in the direction of homes, roadways or other smoke-sensitive areas.

The city is emphasizing that there are no hazardous materials at the sites so citizens should not be concerned. This burn will be conducted by trained and experienced professionals.

The property located at 6705 Angle Crossing Road in Oakley is owned by the City of Decatur, and the burn complies with City Cody Chapter 48 concerning native plants and burning by city officials. This also complies with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, as detailed in the Open Burning Permit issued to the city.

In addition to this, local authorities and fire officials have been notified that the burn will be taking place. Like last time, this prescribed burn is dependent on favorable weather conditions, so the city will communicate again if the plan ends up changing.