USFS NEWS RELEASE
As part of the Carson Ranger District Hazardous Fuels Reduction Project, Forest Service fire crews will begin prescribed fire under-burning in Dog Valley, 10 miles west of Reno in Sierra County, California, starting in mid-October and ending in late November, weather and fuel conditions permitting.
“Prescribed fire is an efficient way of removing woody debris, providing ecosystem benefits, and reducing the risk of catastrophic wildfire and risk to firefighters in the event of a large scale fire,” said Steve Howell, District Fuels Specialist. Benefits of this burn will also improve forest health and wildlife habitat.
Fire crews are currently monitoring weather conditions to identify timeframes that would be suitable for effective prescribed burning of brush and understory vegetation. Approximately 387 acres of understory vegetation will be treated this fall using Forest Service hand crews and engines. Ignition is expected to take approximately 5 days with weather and fuels permitting.
Prescribed fire notices have been posted near residences near the project area notifying of the prescribed burn this spring. Visitors and residents can expect to see smoke when the burns are occurring, and may experience delays in travel near the burn.
This project may have some short-term impacts on air quality levels, but air quality levels will comply with all state and federal air quality regulations. Any burning activity will be accomplished during weather conditions that would minimize impacts of smoke on communities. All burning is done within parameters set forth in an approved burn plan and conform to the Northern Sierra Air Quality Management District and Washoe County Air Quality District standards.
For more information on this release, contact Steve Howell, Fuels Specialist at 775 884-8114.
