The Fall Creek Aspen Restoration Project is sponsored and
supported by several organizations including the Idaho Dept. of Fish and Game
and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. By increasing aspen stands and enhancing
vegetation diversity and composition through this prescribed fire effort, the
IDF&G, CTNF and Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation seek to improve big game
habitat.
Fire Managers will continue to evaluate conditions with
the intent to continue actively burning through Sept. 6 should weather
conditions allow. The Forest and IDF&G is aware that a small portion of
Hunting Unit 66 is affected between 4th of July and Commissary
Ridge. However, the majority of the area is still open to archery enthusiasts.
FS 260 OHV trail is temporary closed for public safety as firefighters work to
clean out snags along the trail.
During red flag conditions or high wind days this week,
the forest halted firing operations and continued to hold previously created
containment lines to make sure the fire didn’t escape the burn unit boundaries.
Work resumed when conditions were conducive to burning. Prescribed fires must
occur at specific times of the year when weather and fuel conditions are conducive
to meeting project objectives.
Fire managers can control the pace at which they ignite
prescribed fires, and carefully consider current and predicted weather during
implementation. Smoke can be expected to settle in drainages and low-lying
areas during the evening and early morning hours. By proactively managing
forest fuels, fire managers are attempting to mitigate the future risk of
prolonged smoke events from high intensity wildfires and create healthier and
resilient landscapes.
We anticipate interior pockets will continue to burn once
the burning operations are complete. Smoke will be visible until a major
weather event with measurable precipitation. Approximately 800 acres have
been completed as of August 29th.
