For Release: May 3, 2021
Crescent, Ore — Tomorrow fuel specialists with the Deschutes National Forest will be doing a prescribed burn south of Crescent.
Crews will underburn approximately 22 acres, located 11 miles southwest of Crescent adjacent to the Two Rivers Subdivision. Ignitions are planned to begin at 10 a.m.
Smoke will be visible from Crescent and the surrounding area during operations. Residents might see smoke to be visible up to two weeks after ignitions are complete. U.S. Highway 97 and State Route 58 will be monitored for smoke impacts and warning signs will be in placed if needed.
The objective of this prescribed burn is to reduce fuel loadings in ponderosa pine stands that are part of the Rim-Paunina project area, which is within the Walker Range Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP). The Walker Range CWPP assesses the risks, hazards, and mitigation and prevention opportunities associated with wildfire in the community.
The public can find an interactive map of prescribed burns as well as air quality information at this link: https://www.centraloregonfire.org/wildfire-smoke-air-quality-maps-2/ If the public wants to sign up for text alerts about prescribed fires and wildfires they should text COFIRE to 888-777.
The public is encouraged to close their windows at night and if smoke is on the roadway, turn on headlights and slow down while traveling through smoky areas. The public’s health is important to the Forest Service. While significant preventive measures are taken, many factors influence a person’s susceptibility to smoke, including severity and duration of smoke exposure and a person’s health. If individuals feel impacted by smoke, they should avoid outdoor physical exertion and remain indoors. If people experience serious health impacts from the smoke, they should contact their doctor. For more information about smoke and health, visit the Oregon Health Authority recommendations through this link: https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/Preparedness/Prepare/Pages/PrepareForWildfire.aspx#health
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