November 13, 2026 - The High Sierra Ranger District of the Sierra National Forest continues prescribed fire operations 
during the week of Nov. 8 after receiving all required approvals. Pile Ignitions are planned to begin Thursday November 12th. Fire management staff estimate these projects will continue through late November 2026, weather permitting. Fire managers intend to continue prescribed fire operations through the winter of 2026 and into spring 2027, as conditions allow. The Forest Service uses prescribed fire to reduce overgrown vegetation, help protect local communities, infrastructure, and natural resources from wildfires, and prepare areas for reforestation.
Prescribed fire operations are planned for the following sites on the High Sierra Ranger District:
- Pile Burning – Garnet Roadside Hazard
- Forest Service Roads 11S15, 11S12 (Black Rock-Sawmill Flat Road), and 11S40 (McKinley Grove Road)
Fire management officials work with the California Air Resources Board and the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District(SJVAPCD) smoke specialists to plan prescribed fire projects. These projects are conducted when weather is most likely to move smoke up and away from our communities. While prescribed fire managers take significant preventive measures, communities may experience smoke during or immediately after a prescribed fire operations.
For information on smoke impacts and how to reduce exposure, please visit www.airnow.gov or www.valleyair.org.
Residents and visitors to Prather, Tollhouse, Auberry, Huntington Lake, Big Creek, China Peak, Shaver Lake, and other mountain communities may see smoke and flames from the project areas. Residents and Visitors are encouraged not to report prescribed fire projects through the 911 system. Smoke from the ignitions may be visible from CA Highway 168, Huntington Lake Road, the valley floor, the ALERTCalifornia.org camera network, and other vantage points. Visitors are encouraged to use caution and watch for fire crews and equipment when traveling near prescribed burn areas.
For more information about these prescribed fire projects and activities, please contact the High Sierra Ranger District Office at 559-855-5355.
Source: SNF