Prescribed Burning Planned at Rock Cut this Weekend
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Spokane, Wash. – The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Spokane District has will begin prescribed fire operations this weekend on the Rock Cut prescribed fire unit (located North of Orient, Wash.). The burn area is 75 acres. District Manager Kurt Pindel explains, “Prescribed burning allows firefighters to reduce hazardous fuels while conditions are favorable. Conducting burning in a more controlled environment ultimately provides for the safety of firefighters and the public which is always our highest priority.”
Fire managers are hoping to carry out prescribed burning operations in the area this weekend (April 17-18). The exact timing will vary depending on fuel conditions and wind patterns. Ignition should only last a couple hours, but residual smoke may be present in the area for a few days following the burn. Burned areas will be monitored to ensure that fire remains within the unit boundaries.
Burned areas can be very hazardous. The public is urged to stay away from these areas during burning operations and for a few days afterward. Signs will be posted along access roads and near affected trailheads and trail junctions during operations. Temporary access restrictions or closures may be used if necessary, for public safety.
People with respiratory problems and those sensitive to smoke may want to avoid these areas during burning operations.
-BLM-
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.