The first located on Nevada Point Ridge is 300 acres and the second is 1400 acres located in the Long Canyon area. The purpose of prescribed fire is to allow fire to play its natural role in an ecosystem where frequent, low-intensity burns historically occurred. Specifically, these prescribed fires are to reduce the amount of needles, small plants, brush and small trees that carry fire from the forest floor into the treetops. The prescribed fires also stimulate the growth of grasses, forbs and shrubs that provide food for deer, wild turkeys and other wildlife. Prescribed fires are ignited only when conditions exist that ensure low to moderate intensities, unlike those in summer wildfires.
Smoke is both an environmental concern and an extremely important management consideration.
The Forest Service must comply and coordinate with state and local county air pollution control districts. Smoke may continue for days after actual ignition because of the large scale of these projects. We understand that smoke has an impact on people, particularly those with respiratory conditions and allergies. Every effort is made to commence these fires during weather patterns that will carry smoke away from populated areas, however, smoke emissions may cause a temporary reduction in visibility in the immediate vicinity. Roads Omo Ranch Road is accessible.