BLM Plans Prescribed Burns in NE California, NW Nevada, to Reduce Wildfire Risk

ALTURAS, Calif. - To reduce the risk of wildfire and help protect communities, the Bureau of Land Management, in coordination with the U.S. Wildland Fire Service, plans to conduct multiple prescribed burns to reduce hazardous fuels on BLM-managed public lands in northeastern California and northwestern Nevada starting as early as October 1.

"Prescribed fire is an important management tool that helps reduce wildfire risks, supports healthy landscapes, improves wildlife habitat, and aids ecosystem recovery by controlling invasive plants, promoting native plant growth, and returning nutrients to the soil." said Kevin Kunkel, manager of the BLM Applegate Field Office.

Prescribed pile burns will occur through the fall, winter, and spring in Modoc County, northern Washoe County, northeastern Lassen County, northeastern Shasta County, and northeastern Siskiyou County, when adequate moisture is present. Smoke may be visible to residents in and near the California communities of Madeline, Likely, Alturas, Fort Bidwell, Cedarville, Fall River Mills, Tulelake, Dorris, Macdoel, and as well as to motorists traveling in the Vya area of northwest Nevada.

By managing fuel loads through prescribed fire, the BLM can proactively help reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires and their impacts on communities, recreation opportunities, and natural and cultural resources. Contact the BLM Applegate Field Office at 530-279-6101 for more information.