SENEY – A portion of the Marshland Wildlife Drive at the Seney National Wildlife Refuge will be closed Friday for a prescribed burn.

Fire Management Officer Gary Lindsay says they expect to burn up to 160 acres south of the Refuge Entrance Road.

The purpose of the burn is to enhance habitat for wildlife including marshland song birds, black bears, deer, waterfowl and sharp-tailed grouse. The burns also help reduce the effects of possible wildfires.

The burn is dependent on appropriate weather conditions.

Visitors are asked to check with the Refuge Visitor Center regarding road closures and routes changes.