Pile and understory burning is part of an ongoing wildfire defense system. A system that is designed to slow the progression of wildfires while protecting surrounding communities, and allows firefighters a safe area to engage in suppression activities.

Understory burning consists of the Source-Kinsman understory located south and west of the Kinsman housing area near the San Joaquin drainage. The Sugar Pine understory located North of Oakhurst within the Fresno River drainage. The Greys Mountain understory located northeast of Oakhurst and within the Willow Creek drainage. Burns could take place in the earlier spring.

The Forest Service coordinates all burning activities with the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District to time the project with favorable weather conditions and smoke dispersion.

Localized smoke impacts may be felt in Mariposa, Oakhurst, Fish Camp, Sugar Pine, Cedar Valley, Bass Lake, Ahwahnee, Cascadel, and North Fork. For regional information about air quality, smoke conditions, and health effects, visit www.airnow.gov.

Visitors may see smoke, active fire, and firefighters during the burns, and are asked to drive slowly and carefully as they enjoy the Forest. For firefighter and public safety, signs will be posted along roadways where burning is taking place.

For more information on the prescribed burning, contact Gloria Smith, Bass Lake Ranger District Fuels Specialist at (559) 877-2218 ext.3103.
Source: Sierra National Forest