BLM to conduct prescribed burn in Southwest Idaho

BOISE, Idaho (KIFI) — The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) will implement the Johnston Draw Prescribed Burn on 2,311 acres of land (592 BLM, 65 state, and 1,654 privately-owned) near the Reynolds Creek Watershed in the Owyhee Mountains, roughly 50 miles southwest of Boise.

The prescribed fire will occur between Sept. 15 and Oct. 31, depending on weather and ground conditions.

The prescribed fire is conducted in coordination with the Agricultural Research Service. Researchers are investigating how prescribed fire influences vegetation diversity, wildlife habitat, soil properties, and stream flow in mountain big sagebrush and mountain shrub communities, as well as assess post-fire vegetation recovery relative to post-fire livestock management and fire severity.  

Fire managers will wait for appropriate weather conditions to safely conduct the prescribed fire. Once initiated, prescribed burning operations are expected to last 3-5 days. Personnel and equipment will be patrolling the burn and mopping-up hotspots for 3-7 days postburn. 

All routes into the immediate burn area will be posted and patrolled during ignition operations to ensure the public remains clear of the burn area for safety. Visibility on roads may be reduced due to smoke and Owyhee County officials will temporary close routes in the area. Off highway vehicle users and others out recreating in the area should exercise caution when in the vicinity of the prescribed fire.  

For additional information, contact the BLM Boise District Fire Information Line at 208-384-3378.