LEYDEN, MA — May 3rd — During a controlled burn operation in Leyden, members of the Bernardston Fire Department and the Town of Leyden Fire Department supported Star Tree controlled Fire. Firefighters underwent practical training on weather effects, fuel conditions, fire behavior, and equipment modifications for controlled burns.

According to department officials, the exercise improved participants' comprehension of how vegetation, geography, and wind impact fire control strategies. The purpose of prescribed burns is to minimize dry vegetation and reduce the likelihood of uncontrolled wildland fires. Prior to brush fire season, the training improved regional wildland firefighting readiness, according to fire agency leaders.