Wondering About that Big Cloud of Smoke South of Marion Wednesday? Fear Not

That cloud of smoke you saw south of town was no reason for alarm.

A number of residents notified police dispatch, as well as contacted Marion Patch looking for answers.

"Any knowledge of the big fire in Marion around 2pm today? It was in the recycling center/35th street area."

It was just a controlled burn at Squaw Creek Park.

"Yes, it was a controlled burn at Squaw Creek Park," Kari Lammer, Linn County Conservation community outreach manager told us in an email. "Our staff notified the Sheriff and Fire department, as they were expecting a lot of smoke."

Marion Fire Chief Terry Jackson said his department received no calls for service but Marion Police Dispatch fielded several calls.

"They conduct prairie burns in Squaw Creek spring and fall – this is likely what was taking place," Jackson said.