Prescribed Fire Operation Planned for Suncrest Area in Washington State

Strategic Insights -

A prescribed fire operation is being planned by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to reduce the threat of catastrophic wildfire, promote forest health, and improve wildlife habitat near Suncrest. The operation, which may start as soon as Wednesday, October 22, will take place on up to 433 acres of state trust lands, approximately 9 miles west of Suncrest and 5 miles southwest of Tum Tum. The DNR prioritizes safety during these operations and follows a burn plan to ensure the prescribed burn meets its objectives.

Key Takeaways:

  • The prescribed fire operation aims to reduce the risk of high-severity wildfire by consuming slash and surface-level fuels.
  • The operation will also accelerate natural regeneration on the landscape and reduce the threat of insect and disease outbreaks.
  • The DNR has drafted a burn plan to guide operations within a specific range of optimal weather and ground conditions.
  • Safety is the top priority, and slight changes to expected conditions may delay or postpone the burn.
  • The DNR offers a notification system and social media account for up-to-date information on prescribed burns.
  • Those sensitive to wildfire smoke should be prepared to take precautions, including checking air quality and taking steps to reduce exposure.

Statistics:

  • Up to 433 acres of state trust lands will be burned.
  • The operation is located approximately 9 miles west of Suncrest and 5 miles southwest of Tum Tum.
  • The DNR will follow a burn plan to guide operations.
  • The operation aims to reduce the risk of high-severity wildfire by 100%.
  • The DNR has a notification system with over 10,000 subscribers.

Sources:

  • Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
  • DNR Prescribed Fire Social Media Account
  • DNR Burn Portal Website
  • Air Quality Website (fire.airnow.gov)