The State of Alaska, Division of Forestry & Fire Protection (DOF) is preparing for multiple prescribed burns in the Delta, Fairbanks, and Matanuska-Susitna Areas. Burning operations will begin as early as April 30, weather and conditions permitting. The prescribed burns are planned for the following areas:
Delta Junction – Delta Junction Bison Range – Beginning April 30:
DOF, in partnership with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G), are planning to burn fields of the Delta Junction Bison Range as early as April 30, depending on weather and fuel conditions. Firefighters from State Forestry & Fire Protection along with Red Carded staff from ADF&G will use drip torches to ignite the fields. DOF staff and members of Pioneer Peak Hotshot Crew will be on site to assist in monitoring and controlling the burn. There may be smoke visible in Delta Junction, the surrounding communities, and on the Alaska Highway; signs will be posted to caution traffic.
Fairbanks – Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge – As early as May 5
DOF in partnership with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game will conduct prescribed burns at Creamer’s Field Waterfowl Refuge. Burning the dried grass now will enhance habitat for waterfowl and other wildlife that live on or visit the refuge, while also reducing the potential for wildfires later this summer when conditions are drier. Smoke from the fires will likely be visible throughout Fairbanks during the burns, but efforts will be made to minimize smoke impacts to the public.
Palmer – Maud Road – As early as May 13
The small RX burn will be between Mud Lake and Jim Lake, near the end of Maud Road, at the Kenny and Patti Barber Shooting Range. The grasses and brush that often surround these types of popular areas dry out very quickly in the spring and are susceptible to igniting with sparks or embers. Given the burn’s location, the impact to the public is expected to be minimal but smoke may be visible in the greater Mat-Su Valley.
Wasilla – Sitze Road – As early as May 13
The small RX burn will be at the end of W. Shirley Road off of N. Sitze Road as early as May 13. The burn will help consume dead grass fuel within the area in a controlled and safe way. Given the burn’s location, the impact to the public is expected to be minimal but smoke may be visible in the greater Mat-Su Valley.
“There are multiple benefits to these annual prescribed burns,” says Deputy Director of Fire Protection, Norm McDonald, “Including safely managing dry, grassy fuels in a controlled environment, providing training for firefighters as they prepare for the coming season, and collaborating alongside cooperators working to improve habitat management.”
Additional information will be released for the individual prescribed burns and all planned operations will be contingent upon safe weather and fuel conditions. Impact to the public is expected to be minimal but smoke may be visible in the Fairbanks, Delta, and Mat-Su areas during the burn windows.
Contact: Lily Coyle, 907-795-9382, lily.coyle@alaska.gov
Categories: Prescribed Fire
Alaska Wildland Fire Information 