AFTON, Wyo. — The Bridger-Teton National Forest (BTNF) is planning prescribed fire operations this month and into April, the agency announced on Thursday, March 20.
The Greys River Ranger District of the BTNF plans to implement up to 2,500 acres Prescribed Burn in Unit 2, which is within the Star Valley Front Vegetation Restoration Project. The BTNF will also carry out prescribed fire operations for 300-acres in mid-April near Munger Mountain just south of Jackson, Wyoming.
According to a BTNF press release, the work is estimated to continue through the spring as weather conditions allow. The BTNF uses prescribed fires to help reduce overgrown vegetation and protect local communities, infrastructure and natural resources from wildfires.
The BTNF confirms that reducing fuel loading on the landscape can decrease the extent and severity of future wildfire, providing for both firefighter safety and for resource protection. Operations will also improve the vigor of vegetation on mule deer and elk winter and transition range, which the BTNF writes is particularly relevant given the great interest in deer and elk populations in the Star Valley area.
According to the press release, there could be temporary trail and road closures periodically during the day as equipment and firefighters are working in the Star Valley Front area. No area closures are expected near Jackson with these operations, but fire personnel may pause traffic intermittently for public safety.
Warning signs will be placed along roads near all prescribed fire areas before and during burns.
BTNF says residents can expect smoky conditions the day of the burn and into the overnight hours. Some smoke might exist the following day, but it should dissipate considerably thereafter. Find more detailed information about air quality here.
The BTNF will evaluate weather conditions in the hours before a burn begins. If conditions warrant, scheduled prescribed fire activities could be canceled. Firefighters will use the snow as a hold feature to prevent fire spread outside the unit.
