MEEKER | Firefighters are planning to burn up to 800 acres Tuesday, Aug. 29, and Wednesday, Aug. 30, 14 miles northeast of Meeker in the Aldrich Lakes area. Smoke may be visible from Highway 13 and Meeker.
Crews have been working to build and improve upon control lines for this burn. Ignitions within the Aldrich Prescribed Fire burn area on White River National Forest lands will help reduce dense vegetation and other fuels, stimulating new vegetation growth, reducing the risk of large wildfires, and improving wildlife habitat.
“Prescribed fires are carefully planned and executed to bring fire’s natural benefits to a landscape,” said Blanco District Ranger Curtis Keetch. “We closely monitor conditions leading up to a prescribed burn, and only put fire on the ground when predetermined conditions are met to achieve a positive outcome for the resource.”
Firefighters are closely monitoring conditions and will only ignite the fire if conditions are good for a safe, effective burn and good smoke dispersal to minimize smoke impacts to surrounding communities. Smoke should dissipate during the day but may remain on the valley floors as temperatures drop.
Fire managers have developed a detailed prescribed fire plan and obtained smoke permits from the State of Colorado. Prescribed fire smoke may affect your health. For more information, visit: https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdphe/wood-smoke-and-health.
HOPEWEST PRESS RELEASE | Special to the Herald Times
