Fire crews from the Plumas National Forest’s Beckwourth Ranger District, in collaboration with Cal-FIRE’s Lassen Modoc Unit, will conduct prescribed pile burning operations this week at the top of Janesville Grade. The project, located in the Bootsole Project area, aims to reduce hazardous fuels and protect nearby communities like Janesville and Milford.
Starting today, April 1st, and continuing through Friday, April 5th, approximately 200 piles of debris will be burned. Ignitions may continue beyond Friday if conditions permit, treating additional piles within the 495-acre Bootsole Project area.
Smoke from the burning will be visible from U.S. Highway 395 between Susanville and Herlong, impacting communities including Janesville, Milford, and the surrounding area. While smoke impacts are expected, they are not anticipated to have significant long-term effects on nearby communities.
Short-duration smoke impacts are expected along Janesville Grade and neighboring forest roads. Visibility on roads in the project area may be reduced, particularly in the morning and late evening. Motorists are advised to exercise caution and watch for firefighting equipment entering and exiting roadways, as well as potential slow traffic, especially at the intersection of U.S. Highway 395 and Janesville Grade.
According to Plumas National Forest the Bootsole Project is a critical fuel reduction effort in the green forest between the Dixie Fire and Beckwourth Complex burn scars. This work will help protect residences and local communities, including Janesville and Milford, from future wildfires.
“Forest fuels reduction is important for area residents in Lassen County and it’s great to have the combination of favorable conditions and resources available to get this work done above Janesville,” said Acting Plumas National Forest Fire Management Officer Martin Senter. “We appreciate Cal-FIRE’s Lassen Modoc Unit for providing firefighters and resources to help us have a successful operation and help community protection efforts on this project.”
Firefighters will be closely monitoring weather conditions, including increased or gusty winds. If conditions become unfavorable, the burning will stop until conditions improve.
