The Plumas National Forest reports that recent pile burning operations have been successful, with smoke and night glow noticeable in several locations.
On Dec. 19, firefighters successfully treated approximately 200 acres of machine piles on Penman Peak, located approximately 4 miles northwest of Delleker and Portola.
Fuels consumption was good, said PNF. Smoke dispersal was excellent, moving towards Lake Davis and not impacting any communities. The pile burning operation was highly visible from California State Route 70 and the surrounding area.
During the night, there was visible glow from the piles burning on Penman Peak from Highway 70 and the surrounding area. PNF reminds the public that fire looks different at night, appearing closer, larger and more active than it is. Personnel assure the community that the pile burning operation on Penman Peak was secure and there were no threats to communities or residents.
On Dec. 18, firefighters on the Beckwourth Ranger District successfully ignited approximately 2 acres of machine piles on Grizzly Ridge and continued patrol and monitoring of operations at Grizzly Ridge and Frenchman Lake earlier in the week.
On Dec. 17, firefighters on the Mount Hough Ranger District successfully treated approximately 329 acres of machine piles at several locations, including Grizzly Ridge, Mount Hough, north of Antelope Lake and by Taylor Lake.
Fuels consumption was good and smoke dispersal was excellent throughout the day. Glow as fuels continued to burn down was visible at night, particularly from Quincy and the surrounding area.
Also on Dec. 17, firefighters successfully treated approximately 40 acres of machine piles near Frenchman Lake, on the Beckwourth Ranger District. Fuel consumption and smoke dispersal were both really good, said PNF.
The Plumas National Forest says it appreciates the support of partners, neighbors and local communities as firefighters work on completing this critical fuel reduction work for community protection and postfire recovery.
