Lassen National Forest announces it is planning prescribed fire operations beginning this month, pending all required approvals. Staff estimate this work to continue through the winter as weather conditions allow. LNF says it uses prescribed fires to help reduce overgrown vegetation to help protect local communities, infrastructure and natural resources from wildfires.
Prescribed fires planned for the area include the following projects.
On the Almanor Ranger District, various pile burning fuels projects across 13 units will total approximately 1,500 acres of treatment.
On the Eagle Lake Ranger District, various pile burning fuels projects will total approximately 220 acres. The Ebey-Drake Underburn will treat 1,295 acres across 12 units 3 miles north of Poison Lake, situated between Pittville Highway (Lassen County Road 111) and Forest Service Road 33N08. The Bailey Underburn will treat 1,760 acres 4 miles southeast of the Bogard Rest Area on the southeast side of Pine Creek Valley and along Lassen County Road 105.
On the Hat Creek Ranger District, various pile burning fuels projects will be conducted totaling approximately 1,200 acres. The Eastside Underburn will treat 860 acres located in the Halls Flat area, and the North 49 Burn Plan includes 440 acres located near Eskimo Hill.
Forest personnel say areas near burn projects may close to the public for several days for public safety. Forest visitors should watch for warning signs along roads near all prescribed fire areas before and during burns.
Residents may experience smoke during the prescribed burns. More detailed information about air quality is available at https://fire.airnow.gov/. Drivers should slow down and turn on headlights when they encounter smoke on the road.
LNF will evaluate weather conditions in the hours before a burn begins. If conditions warrant, scheduled prescribed fire activities may be canceled.
The public can stay informed about the scheduled prescribed fires and view available maps through the forest website and social media channels. LNF will notify county emergency management officials when burning begins.
