LAKEVIEW, ORE. – Prescribed fire season has arrived in south-central Oregon, and fire managers on the Fremont-Winema National Forest, Wildland Fire Service, and Oregon Department of Forestry will be applying prescribed fire to the local landscape.
Prescribed fire is used by fire managers to improve forest health and wildlife habitat, and to reduce hazardous fuels to minimize the threat of wildfires in our area. Applying prescribed fire is a part of our continued commitment to protecting communities and natural resources from wildfires.
Area residents and visitors may notice smoke or fire on public lands in various areas during the next few weeks. Prescribed fire can look different depending on the forest type, the amount of vegetation, prescribed fire objectives, and how long fire has been absent from the landscape. All areas where prescribed fire operations are underway will be clearly signed. Individuals may encounter increased fire personnel, equipment, traffic, and smoke in these locations. Please stay clear of these areas, when possible, for public and firefighter safety. A table of potential areas scheduled for prescribed burning during the spring season is attached. Operations may occur between March to June, as weather and conditions allow.
Prescribed fire occurs on days when the Oregon Department of Forestry Smoke Management Office indicates there are suitable weather conditions for smoke dispersal. Following that approval, if overall fuel and weather conditions are favorable, firefighters ignite a test fire then proceed with lighting prescribed burns. If the test fire indicates conditions are not suitable, the prescribed fire will be postponed until conditions improve. All burning operations are monitored and patrolled frequently by fire professionals, to ensure public safety.
All South Central Oregon Fire Management Partnership employees are committed to a safe and successful prescribed fire season for the public and employees.
For more information and current updates, check online at Facebook at facebook.com/SCOFMPFireInfo
