Credit: Sierra National Forest
May 18, 2017 - CLOVIS, Calif. – The Sierra National Forest, High Sierra Ranger District, Fuels and Fire Management staff are planning to ignite a prescribed fire on the Vincent Fuel break May 23, 2017 as part of an ongoing hazard fuels reduction plan. Using the advantage of favorable weather conditions, extra fire personnel and equipment will be committed to the project until the treatment is extinguished, as burn days permit.
Fuel breaks are part of a wildfire defense system across the forest that are designed to slow the progression of wildfires, protect the surrounding communities and allow firefighters a safe area to engage in suppression activities. The planned 237 acre treatment is broken up into several units. It is expected to take 2 to 3 days to complete each unit, with active burning lasting two weeks.
This type of prescribed burn program is designed to protect communities from destructive wildfires by reducing hazardous fuel conditions and by restoring, enhancing and sustaining a healthy forest ecosystem. Through the introduction of fire as a component of ecosystem dynamics, it provides forage and hiding cover for wildlife, and becomes easier to confine and control a wildfire during the summer months.
The Forest Service coordinates all burning activities with the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District to time the project to coincide with favorable weather conditions and smoke dispersion.
Smoke may be visible from the greater Fresno/Clovis communities, along Hwy168, and impact the Cressman’s Subdivision and areas around Shaver Lake. For firefighter and public safety, signs will be posted along roadways where burning is taking place. For additional information on smoke conditions and health effects, visit https://www.airnow.gov
For questions and concerns regarding the Vincent Fuel break prescribed burn, contact Adam Hernandez Fuels Specialist, High Sierra Ranger District Office at (559) 855-5355.
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Source: Sierra National Forest
