‘Jackpot burning’ continues this week on the Crooked River National Grassland; here’s what that means

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Fire managers on the Ochoco National Forest said Monday they plan to conduct prescribed burning on the Crooked River National Grassland beginning around 10 a.m. Tuesday, pending all required approvals.

The burn operations are expected to continue through Thursday, weather and conditions permitting, officials said.

The project will treat about 267 acres in the Pace Jackpot burning units 3 and 14, located about four miles southeast of Madras, in the vicinity of Buck Butte, off Grizzly Road and east of Highway 26. 

Jackpot burning is a targeted prescribed fire technique used to consume high concentrations of dead and downed woody debris (fuel "jackpots"). It is used by fire crews to reduce severe wildfire risks in specific, heavily loaded areas.

Smoke may be visible from Prineville, Madras, and along the Highway 26 corridor. Light smoke impacts are possible along SE Grizzly Road, particularly overnight and in the early morning hours as air settles into low-lying areas.

Prescribed burn warning signs will be posted along Grizzly Road, in both directions and along Highway 26 near the project area. Drivers should reduce speed, and use headlights, and be prepared for changing visibility. 

Prescribed burning will only occur when weather, fuel moisture, and air quality conditions meet criteria for safe and effective operations. If conditions are not suitable, ignitions will be postponed. 

Residents may experience smoke during the prescribed burns. For more detailed information about air quality, go to AirNow online or download the app. When driving, slow down and turn on your headlights when you encounter smoke on the road. 

For more information on prescribed burning in Central Oregon, visit centraloregonfire.org/ and for information specific to the Ochoco National Forest visit fs.usda.gov/r06/ochoco. Follow them on X/Twitter @CentralORFire. Text “COFIRE” to 888-777 to receive wildfire and prescribed fire text alerts.