Prescribed fire projects planned this fall
The Westside Ranger District will begin prescribed burning fire operations this fall starting as early as mid-September and continuing through December depending on weather conditions.
Approximately 1,334 acres will be treated.
During this time, smoke may be visible to nearby communities and public recreating in the areas.
The proposed burns are part of the forest service’s ongoing multi-year projects to improve wildlife habitat and manage forest fuels.
Nordic Center Area (30 acres): Prescribed burning activities will be conducted for several days during the fall when weather conditions allow in the Scout Mountain and Nordic Center Area along FS road 001. This pile burn is to reduce piles of fuel accumulated from previously thinned conifers within the aspen stands surrounding the Nordic Center. Smoke may be visible from Pocatello and Inkom areas. Stone Reservoir Area (20 acres): Piles will also be burned in the headwaters of the Stone Reservoir area of the Curlew National Grassland near Holbrook, ID. This pile burn will reduce fuel loading by removing Russian olive trees to promote and restore watershed health and improve sage grouse habitat. Smoke may be visible from Stone/Holbrook, Malad , and Arbon Valley area. Toponce Area (1,276 acres): A broadcast burn is scheduled for the East Hills of the Toponce Basin off FS Road 375 west of Chesterfield, ID to aid in wildlife habitat enhancement efforts as well as to promote aspen regeneration. Smoke may be visible from Lava, Inkom , Chesterfield and Bancroft.
If weather conditions do not allow for ignition, the Forest Service will continue to monitor for an extended clear weather pattern that will meet the combination of fuel moisture, temperature, wind and smoke dispersal conditions necessary for a successful prescribed burn.
