Happening Today: Deschutes National Forest to conduct prescribed burn near Bend
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Deschutes National Forest plans to continue prescribed burning operations on Monday, April 20th, if conditions are favorable. The burn will cover up to 501 acres within the Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District, located 15 miles southeast of Bend.
These operations are designed to manage forest health and protect nearby homes from potential wildfires.
The specific area is situated on the west side of Forest Service Road 18, just north of its junction with Forest Service Road 25 and the Camp II OHV Staging Area.
Ignitions are scheduled to begin around 9:30 a.m. The smoke from these operations may be visible from Highway 20 and from various parts of Bend. This burn marks the final unit within the Flank Burn Plan area.
Trail closures are currently in effect for sections of the Opine OHV Trails System. This includes Trail #020, Trail #022, and Trail #025.
These closures will remain in place for multiple days. They will be lifted once mop-up and patrol operations are complete and firefighters have assessed the trails as safe for public use.
Prescribed burns serve an important role in protecting homes from tragic wildfires. Fire management officials collaborate with smoke specialists from the Oregon Department of Forestry to plan these operations effectively.
During and after the burn, smoke may settle in low-lying areas during overnight and early morning hours. Residents are encouraged to close doors and windows at night to mitigate smoke impacts.
Utilizing a portable air cleaner is recommended if available, ensuring it runs with doors and windows closed. A do-it-yourself air cleaner can also be created. For homes with central air systems, residents should use them to filter air, ideally with high-efficiency filters.
Drivers in smoky areas are advised to slow down, turn on their headlights, and set their vehicle's air system to recirculating mode. Individuals with heart or lung disease, asthma, or other chronic conditions should monitor their symptoms and contact a health care professional if their condition worsens.
For more information on smoke safety and prescribed burning in Central Oregon, residents can visit centraloregonfire.org. Additional smoke preparedness resources are available at centraloregonfire.org/protect-your-health.
Firefighters will reopen the affected trails within the Opine OHV Trails System once conditions have been thoroughly assessed and deemed safe for the public.
