• PIERRE, S.D. (AP) -- Officials are preparing for a nearly 2,200-acre planned fire at Wind Cave National Park in southwest South Dakota.
• The burn will keep ponderosa pine trees from encroaching on the prairie land. Grass will carry the fire.
• The National Park Service says about 50 firefighters will be on hand.
• The fire could take place as early as next week and will last three days. Smoke is expected to be heavy along Highway 385 and in the surrounding region. It will be located in the southwest corner of the park along the highway.
• The prescribed fire program began in 1972. Parts of the park are burned in a controlled setting every year. The fire removes the buildup of dead brush that could fuel a wildfire and rejuvenates the prairie grasses.
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• SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) -- Water division crews in Sioux Falls are scheduled to begin flushing fire hydrants across the city.
• The work is expected to start Wednesday and will last about six weeks. Crews will begin in the northern end of the city and continue south.
• City officials say the benefits to flushing include clearing the water mains of sediments and ensuring the fire hydrants are operational.
• The hydrants will be flushed only on weekdays between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., except for those downtown, which will be flushed between 8 p.m. and 11 p.m.
• Officials say residents of areas were work has begun should check the cold tap water for clarity before doing laundry. Water discoloration due to flushing doesn't pose a health threat and can be used, but could cause staining.
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• SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) -- The South Dakota Wing of the Civil Air Patrol is conducting an emergency services exercise this week.
• The Air Force every two years evaluates the capability and effectiveness of each wing's personnel, equipment, vehicles and aircraft to carry out missions.
• An evaluation team is on scene at the command post in Sioux Falls to provide

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