Single Publication

Current Situation: April 5, 2023, 8:00am

The San Bernardino National Forest (BDF) San Jacinto Ranger District (SJRD) has been facing challenging weather conditions from November 2022 to current, especially on Thomas Mountain, which has been impacted with frequent rain and snow causing flooded, muddy, and icy roads. This has made it difficult to access fire stations and fuel piles which were ready for burning due to some cutting carried out in December in preparation for this process of hazard reduction. 

These ground conditions have also impacted and restricted the mechanical work that has been taking place on the lower elevation of the project with a masticator.  Continued wet ground conditions have prevented the vegetation from drying out, making it difficult to ignite the fuel piles. The SJRD has been monitoring the situation throughout March and will continue to do so to determine the best course of action.  

It is essential to prioritize environmental protection when carrying out the burning of our fuel piles and mechanical work. Depending on the weather conditions and the state of the fuel piles, it may be necessary to delay the work until conditions are favorable. This is crucial to ensure that the roads leading to our fire stations and fuel piles are clear and accessible to avoid any potential safety hazards. The BDF aims to ensure that the work is carried out in a responsible and sustainable manner. 

Prescribed fire plays an important role in forest health and in reducing extreme wildfires and their negative impact. These fires also help reduce heavy fuel loads while simultaneously opening the conifer forest structure and maintaining the health of meadow habitats. Fire is also used to enhance native plant communities and cultural landscapes and improve wildlife habitats. Another goal is to provide defensible space for communities and developed areas within and surrounding the BDF. With all fire comes smoke, and the U.S. Forest Service work to mitigate smoke impacts from prescribed fires on the communities in the area.

#PrescribedBurn #PrescribedFire #ForestHealth #SanJacintoRangerDistrict