Wallspring Prescribed Fire - Giant Forest of Sequoia National Park

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Summary

Fire crews plan to begin ignitions on the Wallspring Prescribed Fire in the Giant Forest of Sequoia National Park on September 29, weather and air quality conditions permitting. The 175-acre unit is located south of the Giant Forest Museum between the Moro Rock Road and the Generals Highway. Hand-held drip torches will be used to ignite the burn over approximately three days. A test burn and black lining (burning along the outer edge of the prescribed fire unit) will begin Saturday with full operations beginning on Sunday. Throughout the project, fire managers will work closely with the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District to manage smoke production and reduce local impacts. Giant sequoias are fire adapted and thrive in naturally cycling fire. Fire opens the cones, and releases the tiny seeds to the nutrient rich ash and mineral soil below-ideal conditions for this tree's germination. Fire thins competing vegetation and trees and opens the canopy for this sun-loving species. The Moro Rock Trail between the Giant Forest Museum and the Moro Rock parking area will be closed for the prescribed fire until further notice. The Moro Rock and Crescent Meadow Road is currently closed because of a repaving project. Fire management would like to complete this prescribed fire while the closure in effect. This will aid firefighter and visitor safety by eliminating traffic on this narrow, winding road during the project. The Generals Highway will remain open during the burn with potential delays. Please use caution while driving in the area since firefighters, equipment, and/or smoke may be present on the roads. Park residents and visitors in the area who are sensitive to smoke or have pre-existing respiratory problems should limit their outdoor activities and keep windows closed during the burn.

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