Fire managers plan to take advantage of recent snowfall to implement prescribed fire operations on the Rancho Allegre and Hidden slash piles. Piles are composed of timber slash created from thinning projects and are treated to reduce hazardous fuel accumulations. Prescribed fire operations are contingent on favorable weather conditions with burning slated to commence on Jan. 8, 2024. Fire managers expect to complete these projects by the end of January.
The Rancho Allegre project area is 211 acres and is located north of Forest Road 300, between Forest Road 34 and Forest Road 84 in Willow Creek. The objective is to reduce hazardous fuel accumulations around private inholdings and return the landscape to a more fire-resistant condition, aligning with the Forest Service’s Wildfire Crisis Strategy. Fire managers will only burn when weather conditions allow for minimal fire creep, thereby protecting the values at risk in the area. Smoke may be visible in nearby campgrounds and along Forest Road 34.
The Hidden project area is 62 acres and is located approximately 3 miles west of Forest Lakes on the north side of Highway 260. The piles are the result of the Hidden timber stand improvement/fuels reduction treatment in the area. The goal is to reduce hazardous fuel accumulations and minimize the risk of high-severity wildfires. Weather conditions, such as snowfall, will determine the timing of ignitions. Smoke and fire will be visible from Highway 260, and fire managers will monitor air quality conditions in and near the community of Forest Lakes. Smoke may reduce visibility and drivers should take extra precautions.
Air quality information is available at https://www.airnow.gov/. Visit the A-S National Forests website and follow us on Facebook and X (Twitter).