(KFVS) - The Shawnee National Forest says it plans to burn about 4,700 acres in several prescribed fire projects in the next year, depending on funding, weather and fuel conditions.

The SHF says these burns will be conducted under controlled conditions between Oct. 2011 and May 2012.

The purpose of the project is to:

• Stimulate the growth of native vegetation positively adapted to fire, and impede vegetation that is not
• Improve wildlife habitat
• Improve the visual quality of the area
• Reduce the likelihood and severity of a wildfire which will increase safety for the public and firefighters in case of a wildfire

For more information, you can contact Scott Crist or Bob Little in the Supervisor's Office at 618-253-7114 or visit their website.

Copyright 2011 KFVS. All rights reserved

JEFFERSON COUNTY, IL (KFVS) - Lt. Governor Sheila Simon announced Monday at the Illinois Farm Bureau that figures are showing more low-income residents are buying fresh foods at farmers markets.

Simon said the amount of food stamp benefits known as LINK redeemed at Illinois farmers markets and from direct marketing farmers jumped from $11,146 to $41,146 between 2009 and 2010. She attributed the growth, partly, to wider access.

She cited data collected by the U.S. Department of Agriculture that said last year, 35 Illinois farmers markets and direct marketing farmers were certified to accept the state-issued LINKED debit cards. The data also says, currently, 49 Illinois farmers markets and direct marketing farmers accept LINKED cards across 21 counties.

“We are seeing a promising trend: more farmers markets accepting LINK and more food stamp benefits being used to buy locally produced, fresh food,” said Simon.

SANDOVAL, IL (KFVS) - Lyon's Fisheries is hosting Trout Days April 23-24.

The free event will include food, music, tours of the fishery and fishing.

For more information you can call 618-247-8477.

Copyright 2011 KFVS. All rights reserved.