Plumas National Forest reports that firefighters on the Beckwourth Ranger District are planning to start prescribed burning on the Big Hill Project this week, conditions permitting. The plan is to start treatment with approximately 40 acres south of Sloat tomorrow. If conditions remain favorable, an additional 200 acres are planned for ignition over Thursday and possibly Friday.
Ignitions will pause over the weekend and then resume Monday, May 26. Up to 500 acres in the project area could be ignited through next Wednesday, May 28.
Smoke is expected to be visible but not have significant long-term impacts to nearby communities, including Sloat, Cromberg, Greenhorn Ranch, Blairsden, Graeagle, Clio, Mohawk Valley, Quincy, Portola and the surrounding area. Area residents and visitors sensitive to smoke may want to be prepared for potential smoke impacts and take measures to reduce exposure, said PNF.
Minor smoke impacts of short duration are expected along California highways 70 and 89, and neighboring forest roads. Visibility on roads in the project area may be reduced, especially early in the morning and late in the evening as smoke settles. There will also be increased firefighting equipment traffic in the area and traveling on highways 70 and 89, particularly in the morning and evening hours. PNF said drivers in the area should use caution.
If weather conditions become unfavorable, including if there are increased or gusty winds in the area, burning will stop until conditions improve, says PNF. Firefighters will be monitoring conditions throughout the operation. More information on the Plumas National Forest is available at http://www.fs.usda.gov/plumas and http://www.facebook.com/USFSPlumas.