Providing the first update on prescribed burning operations today in the South Park Area north of Quincy. Also attached are photos from this morning’s briefing, firefighters preparing to go out to the prescribed burn units, continuing prep work and the test fires. Photos are labeled with the 6 number date, the name of the prescribed burn and a short description.
Despite a foggy start to the day, conditions for prescribed burning in the South Park Units of the North Quincy Project area are favorable.
Briefing took place at 9 a.m. and test fires were successful around 11 a.m. and ignitions are continuing.
Firefighters are planning to treat approximately 152 acres today. They are starting in the area of the Ridge and Bear Cub Trails and planning to go towards the western edge of the planned treatment area.
The South Park Trailhead, locally known as the Barlow Trailhead, the Monument Trailhead, and other access points along Chandler Road are now closed and area residents and visitors are asked to avoid the area. Spanish Trailhead, Spanish Traverse and Spanish Ridge are still open and accessible today. The Cascades Trail is open from the Cascades Trailhead.
Smoke is expected to be highly visible in the area, including Quincy, Indian Valley, Chandler Road, Oakland Camp Road and California State Highway 70, but is not expected to have significant long-term impacts to nearby communities.
Short duration, minor smoke impacts are expected along Chandler Road, California State Highway 70 and neighboring forest roads. Visibility on roads in the project area may be reduced at times.
During the evening smoke may settle in lower areas including Chandler Road, Quincy, Keddie and down-canyon communities. While it is unlikely, there is a possibility of limited smoke impacts in the Indian Valley area. Individuals who are smoke sensitive in these areas are advised to monitor conditions and take precautions if needed.
There are a lot of firefighting resources working to ensure this is a safe and successful prescribed burning operation, including local partners, Plumas National Forest and other Forest Service firefighters from across the Region.
There will be increased firefighter traffic during and after prescribed burning operations, primarily on Chandler Road. The public is asked to avoid Chandler Road if possible, use alternate routes or use extreme caution traveling in the area.
Additionally, drivers on California State Highway 70 in the area near the Ranger Station and Chandler Road should use caution and watch for firefighting equipment entering and exiting area roadways and possible slow traffic.
