Two prescribed burns planned on Deschutes National Forest

(Updating with second burn planned south of Crescent)

Deschutes National Forest fire managers are planning to do burns in two separate prescribed fire project areas this week.

The Deadlog Prescribed Burn unit is 300 acres and located about 28 miles east of La Pine, near the junction of Forest Service roads 22 and 23.

The Bee prescribed burn unit is 363 acres, located along Forest Road 9760, a few miles south of Crescent.

Ignitions on both burn units will begin on Tuesday around mid-morning, officials said.

Forest Service officials said prescribed fires restore and maintain healthy forest conditions. Burning will continue throughout the week, as weather conditions allow.

Road closures are not expected. If traveling in this area, officials urge you to please drive slowly, close windows and drive with lights on. Fire and smoke may be present on roadways during and after the burning period.

Residual smoke may linger in low-elevation areas for the following days, especially during cold nighttime conditions.

These areas were historically maintained by frequent low-intensity fires. The intent of burning is a reduction of hazardous fuels, reintroduction of fire to a fire-adapted ecosystem, forest health and habitat restoration.

Fuels specialists will follow policies outlined in the Oregon Department of Forestry smoke management plan, which governs smoke from prescribed fires, and attempts to minimize impacts to visibility and public health.

Keep up with prescribed burns in Central Oregon by visiting: http://www.centraloregonfire.org or text ” COFIRE ” to 888-777 to receive text alerts.