The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest is getting ready to start prescribed fire projects when weather, fuel conditions and air quality become favorable, the U.S. Forest Service said in a press release.
Burning could begin soon if areas of planned burns receive enough rain, the release said, and may continue through the winter. Smoke will be visible from various places depending on the location of the burn units and weather conditions.
“These burn plans represent many years of analysis and preparation to ensure burn operations meet prescriptive conditions that allow for successful burns that provide multiple resource benefits,” the release said. “The forest adheres to Washington air quality standards and coordinates with Washington State Department of Natural Resources prior to burning to ensure conditions are right to minimize the impacts of smoke to our neighbors, cooperator, and surrounding communities.”
“Burning would not occur if smoke impacts are expected in areas that are not meeting air quality standards due to ongoing wildfire smoke,” said Forest Deputy Fire Staff Officer Matt Castle.
The project areas in the Methow Valley Ranger District include:
• Cedar Creek fireline repair piles, 4 acres in the Methow Valley corridor at the toe of the slope below Sandy Butte. Smoke will be highly visible, especially from Highway 20 and Mazama.
• Cub Creek fireline repair piles, 4 acres in the First Butte and Leroy Creek areas, minimal smoke impacts.
• French Corner piles, 450 acres in the Benson Creek area, minimal smoke impacts.
• Loupy piles, 400 acres in North and South Summit Loup Loup area. Smoke will be highly visible from Highway 20 going over Loup Loup.
For information, call the Methow Valley Ranger District at (509) 996-4000. Daily updates are recorded and available at (509) 966-4040.
