Firefighters on the Plumas National Forest Beckwourth and Mount Hough Ranger Districts plan to conduct pile burning operations this week, conditions permitting.
On the Beckwourth Ranger District, firefighters plan to treat approximately 60 acres of hand piles this week near Plumas Pines in the Mohawk Project area.
The piles being treated are on National Forest System lands near private residences. Glow from the piles burning will be visible at night, likely for a few days after ignitions. Firefighters will ensure the area treated is secure before leaving for the night.
On the Mount Hough Ranger District, following successful treatment of combined pile burning and underburning on the North Quincy Project west of Four Corners last week, firefighters are planning on treating approximately 25 acres of hand piles this week near the Cascade Trailhead.
There are no trail closures, but mountain bikers are asked to slow down and watch for firefighters in the area who may be using the trail to access the unit this week. There may also be areas of heavy smoke at times.
For both projects, intention is to ignite approximately 10 acres per day. Ignitions may take place through the end of the week as weather and conditions allow. Firefighters will be monitoring any smoke impacts to California State Highways 70 and 89.
Smoke is expected to be visible but not have significant long-term impacts to nearby communities, including Blairsden, Graeagle and Quincy, as well as California State Highways 70 and 89, Old Highway and the surrounding area.
Short duration, minor smoke impacts are expected along Highways 70 and 89, Old Highway and neighboring forest roads. Visibility on roads in the project areas may be reduced, especially early in the morning and late evening as smoke settles.
During the evening smoke may settle in lower areas. Individuals who are smoke sensitive in these areas are advised to monitor conditions and take precautions if needed. This includes residents in the Old Highway area.
There will be increased firefighting equipment traffic in the area of these operations. Drivers should use caution, watch for fire equipment exiting and entering area roadways, and possible slow traffic.
If weather conditions become unfavorable, including increased or gusty winds in the area, burning will stop until conditions improve. Firefighters will be monitoring conditions throughout the operation.
For more information on the Plumas National Forest, visit www.fs.usda.gov/plumas or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/USFSPlumas.
