The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is planning a prescribed burn operation at the Volga River State Recreation Area, between November 1 and May 1, 2026, when favorable weather conditions are present. A news release reports signs will be posted in relevant areas within Volga River well in advance of the burn. When favorable conditions are present within the stated window, the trails and parking areas within the burn area will be closed the night before prescribed burning begins. Local first responders will be notified as soon as a burn date is known, as part of the burn plan, and DNR staff will conduct a walkthrough of the area to ensure that it is unoccupied. Some roads within Volga River may be closed temporarily, and traffic will be controlled by DNR staff or local first responders throughout the operation. The prescribed burn will likely take place during the archery season or the following deer hunting seasons, but no restrictions will be placed on using this area. Users may still place tree stands or cameras in the area. Arrangements can be made to notify Hunters of the burn date to allow time to recover tree stands, cameras or other equipment. Anyone with hunting equipment placed in the area should contact DNR staff to make arrangements. The DNR says these controlled burns are an important tool for land management.
