November 4, 2026 - The High Sierra Ranger District of the Sierra National Forest is planning to implement several prescribed fire projects this week, considering required approvals. Fire managers have tentatively scheduled operations to begin Wednesday, Nov. 4, and continue through late November 2026, or as weather and fuel conditions allow.

Maps

The Forest Service uses prescribed fire to reduce hazardous vegetation, improve forest health, protect nearby communities and infrastructure from wildfire, safeguard natural resources, and prepare project areas for future reforestation activities.

Fire managers intend to continue prescribed fire operations throughout the winter of 2026 and into spring 2027 as conditions permit.

Prescribed fire operations are planned for the following sites on the High Sierra Ranger District:

Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2026

Pile Burning

• Midge Day Use Campground
  • Located near CA Highway 168 and Kaiser Pass Road.
• Kokanee Work Center
  • Located near CA Highway 168 and Kaiser Pass Road.

Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026

Pile Burning

• Swanson Timber Sale Area
  • Located near Forest Service Road 10S01 and Dinkey Creek Road.

Smoke and Public Information

Fire management officials work closely with the California Air Resources Board and the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District to carefully plan prescribed burns. Projects are conducted only when weather conditions are expected to disperse smoke away from nearby communities as effectively as possible.

Although every effort is made to minimize smoke impacts, residents and visitors may experience smoke during and immediately following burn operations.

What This Means for You

• Smoke may settle in low-lying areas overnight and during early morning hours.
• Keep doors and windows closed when smoke is present.
• Use portable air cleaners when available. Air cleaners are most effective when doors and windows remain closed.
• Use central heating and air systems to filter indoor air, preferably with high-efficiency filters.
• When driving in smoky conditions, slow down, turn on headlights, and use the vehicle's recirculation setting.
• Individuals with heart disease, lung disease, asthma, or other respiratory conditions should monitor symptoms closely and contact a healthcare provider if symptoms worsen.

For additional information about smoke impacts and ways to reduce exposure, visit www.airnow.gov or www.valleyair.org.

What Residents May Expect

Residents and visitors in and around Prather, Tollhouse, Auberry, Shaver Lake, Huntington Lake, Big Creek, China Peak, and other mountain communities may see smoke and flames associated with these prescribed fire operations.

Smoke may be visible from:

• CA Highway 168
• Huntington Lake Road
• The San Joaquin Valley floor
• ALERTCalifornia.org camera systems
• Other nearby viewpoints

Because these are planned and monitored prescribed fire operations, residents and visitors are encouraged to avoid reporting visible smoke or flames from these projects through the 911 emergency system.

Forest visitors should use caution when traveling near project areas and remain alert for firefighters, equipment, and temporary traffic controls.

For more information about these prescribed fire projects, contact the High Sierra Ranger District Office at 559-855-5355.

Source: SNF