Ochoco National Forest plans pile burning along Highway 26 east of Prineville

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Ochoco National Forest plans to begin burning slash piles along Highway 26, about 15 miles east of Prineville, starting Tuesday, Nov. 10, weather and fuel conditions permitting.

The work will take place on the Lookout Ranger District within the footprint of the 2025 Marks Creek Fire.

The slash piles were created during firefighting operations, including the construction of containment lines, as well as timber sale operations following the fire.

Fire crews will be working near Highway 26 and National Forest System roads 2610, 050 and 100.

Burning is expected to continue for multiple days, with ignitions beginning around 9 a.m. each day. Crews will be in the area from dawn to dusk.

Motorists may see smoke along Highway 26, particularly during the morning hours.

Forest officials say residents in the Marks Creek Subdivision may also notice limited smoke from the operations. They acknowledge prescribed burning can temporarily affect air quality for nearby communities, recreationists and hunters.

Officials say the short-term smoke impacts are generally less significant than the prolonged smoke events that can result from unplanned wildfires.

The Ochoco National Forest says the prescribed burning is part of its efforts to reduce wildfire risk, improve wildlife habitat and promote healthier, more resilient forests.