Yosemite West: - Prescribed Fire Information

Yosemite National Park- Yosemite West prescribed fire
Picture credit: USFS

Fire Education Office

P.O. Box 577

Yosemite, CA 95389

209/372-0480 phone or

209/372-0491 phone

National Park Service

U.S. Department of the Interior

Prescribed Fire Information Update #2

Yosemite West: PW-17, Segment E

October 12, 2007

The Yosemite West prescribed fire began October 9, at 9:30 AM. Units B and C ignitions were completed

October 11, and fire crews are now cleaning up and securing the "holding" lines. Approximately 250 acres were

treated (burned) with good fuel consumption of the dead and down, forest litter and other unwanted trees and

brush.

This area has not had any fire in recorded history, resulting in large accumulations of dead and down large tree

fuels. Standing dead trees (snags), those valued for wildlife habitat, were protected by fire crews in their pre-burn

preparation and during the burning operation. Other cultural prehistoric and historic values were also identified

and protected throughout the burn. The area has significant logging history dating to the late 1920's and early

1930's, with many small gauge railroad rights of way, cables and other associated debris.

Favorable weather for burning is predicted through the weekend. This will allow Fire Managers to

continuing preparing Segment E (approximately 650 acres) for burning the week of Sunday October 14.

A weather system has brought light rain and cooler temperatures to the area today. As this weather system clears

out later today, another larger storm is anticipated Tuesday, October 16, with significant rain and snow at the fire

area elevation (5500').

Smoky conditions have existed in the burn area and will continue to exist through the burn project. The predicted

weather system will reduce the settling of smoke in the area as it mixes with the air and lifts out of the area.

Minimal smoke may exist along the Wawona Rd (Hwy 41). All drivers are to continue to pay special

attention to instructions provided by Yosemite's Traffic Control Officers, and obey posted speed signs. The

southbound lane is open and no traffic delays are predicted. A special note of thanks goes to Yosemite Traffic

Control Officers for doing fine work in keeping our visitors and firefighters safe along the road during the

burning of Units B and C.

Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions to minimize smoke impacts to health. People with

respiratory problems should use caution when exerting themselves in smoky areas.

For additional information or concerns, please call the Fire Information Line at (209) 372-0480 or our Prescribed

Fire Office at (209) 375-9574/9576.

Mariposa County Health Department: (209) 966-2220 Fax: (209) 966-8248