Prescribed burns begin near Cd'A

SMELTERVILLE — The Idaho Panhandle National Forests plans to start fall prescribed burning the week of Sept. 12 in the Magee area of the Coeur d’Alene River Ranger District. Approximately 3,000 acres are on the burn list for the Upper River project. Ignitions will occur predominantly in roadless areas in the upper end of the North Fork Coeur d’Alene River. The purpose of this prescribed burn is to reduce hazardous fuels, to decrease the risk of wildfire, and to benefit wildlife by increasing the quality and quantity of browse available for big game such as elk, deer and moose.

Ignitions for the Upper River Burn are tentatively planned for Sept. 14. Hunters that have trail cameras, tree stands, or camps within the burn units should remove them prior to this date.

Backcountry pilots are advised to check official sources prior to traveling as there is a potential impact to air travel in the vicinity of the Magee airstrip. A temporary area closure is planned for public safety. Please visit http://www.northidahorxfire.com/ for a map showing the planned closure area and for additional information on this project.

The exact timing and acreage of burns will vary depending on weather conditions, fuel moisture and wind patterns.

When burn dates are forecasted, signs will be posted along access roads, near affected trailheads and trail junctions, and information will be posted to the forest’s Facebook page.

If you plan on recreating or hunting near these project areas, make sure you understand your location relative to closure areas and burn units. Active burning usually occurs for two to three days until moisture puts out the fire; however, burned areas can still be very hazardous. Burned areas will be monitored to ensure that fire remains within the unit boundaries. The public is urged to stay away from these areas during burning operations and for a few days afterward.

Information: Shoshana Cooper, public affairs officer, 208-765-7211