The state Game Commission is conducting a controlled burn on 70 areas in Rush Township today. The burn site is close to, but not in, Locust Lake State park.

The commission plans the burns, which get rid of trees and brush that choke the growth of oak tree. Oaks support and shelter wildlife.Oak trees' roots go deep into the ground, so the fire will not kill them. It will burn off the thick layer of leaves on the ground, as well as tulip poplar, maple and birch trees that crowd out the young oaks by blocking sunlight and absorbing nutrients.The commission has to wait until conditions are just right to conduct the burn. The ground has to contain enough, but not too much, moisture, and the winds must be calm. The conditions are expected to be right today, but that can change quickly.The commission will have about 20 people at the site, including the "burn boss," who will make sure the burn is conducted properly. An 8-foot wide path will be cleared around the burn site, and local fire companies have been notified. The area will be burned in a series of small patches.Check out complete coverage in Saturday's edition.