Under the Federal Wildland Fire Policy, these fires are being managed for resource benefits as part of a nationwide effort to restore fire's natural and vital role in ecosystems. A National Fire Use Management Team is managing these fires with the assistance and cooperation of park staff. Fire management personnel are monitoring these fires by air and with ground patrols. Suppression actions will be taken if any fire is predicted to threaten visitor safety or developed areas. Otherwise, the fires will be allowed to continue burning until extinguished by natural events such as rain, snow, or lack of fuel.
Natural fire is an integral part of the ecosystem and maintains a healthy forest.
Fires produce many benefits including recycling important nutrients into the soil, decreasing catastrophic fires, and providing new habitat for wildlife. A moderate smoke column is visible, rising to the northeast approximately 700-1000 feet. Occasionally, this fire is producing smoke visible within Yosemite Valley, especially in the early morning. Chil Fire - Located about six miles northeast of Wawona near the Buena Vista Crest on a headwater fork of Chilnualna Creek, this fire started on July 13 and is approximately 43 acres in size. It is approximately 1 acre in size with no visible smoke.