More Prescribed Burns Planned Next Month In Eastern Washington

WASHINGTON — Fire crews are preparing for a series of prescribed burns planned next month in Eastern Washington to reduce the risk and severity of future fires while improving habitats in two wildlife areas.

The annual burns are part of the state's forest management plan, funded by the capital budget. According to the state Department of Fish and Wildlife, the upcoming burns will treat hundreds of acres by the end of fall, including 500 acres in the Colockum Wildlife Area southeast of Wenatchee and 200 acres in the Oak Creek Wildlife Area west of Naches.

State wildlife crews will partner with the Department of Natural Resources to complete the Oak Creek burn across boundaries.

Officials said each season allows a small window to safely conduct prescribed burns, when temperatures are running cooler and precipitation is more likely. The fires help address wildfire fuels like dead trees and plants while rejuvenating certain vegetation.

According to WDFW, all burns are weather dependent and can be postponed if conditions are not ideal. Crews also keep close tabs on the fires to minimize smoke impacts for those living in and visiting the area. If the weather cooperates, the state may announce additional burns in the coming weeks.