Sequoia National Forest fire managers will conduct pile-burning projects beginning Wednesday, December 6, near Hume Lake
Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument
Sequoia National Forest fire managers will conduct pile-burning projects beginning Wednesday, December 6, near Hume Lake within the Hume Lake Ranger District in Giant Sequoia National Monument. Fire management crews will conduct burn operations now that weather and smoke conditions are favorable. Burning will continue for as long as conditions allow.
Years of severe drought in California, bark beetle infestation, wildfires, and warmer temperatures led to a historic level of hazard trees. Over the past few summers, forest crews, contractors, and cooperators have hand-piled small limbs, brush, and trees from felled hazard trees over hundreds of acres. Scattered piles are between 3,500-8,000 feet elevation.
Once the burning is complete, piles may only partially be consumed by the prescribed fire. Typically, remnants of piles are left to protect the soil from erosion and promote new vegetation growth. Some piles will be intentionally left unburned to benefit wildlife.
Smoke from the prescribed burning operations will be visible along roads and from nearby communities. Forest personnel work closely with the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District to manage smoke production and reduce the impact on communities. Visitors can learn more about air quality and smoke by visiting the San Joaquin Valley APCD Home Page (valleyair.org). The public should abide by all Federal, State, and local regulations, including Forest Closure Orders and any prescribed burn-related signs.
Stay informed by following the Sequoia National Forest webpage at www.fs.usda.gov/sequoia, Facebook @SequoiaNF, and Twitter (X) @sequoiaforest.
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