Pinedale, October 25, 2021—Winter conditions are settling in over the Pinedale Ranger District of the Bridger-Teton National, which means fuels crews will soon begin pile burning operations throughout the district.
Fuels reduction programs, which involve mechanical or hand thinning projects, remove trees to reduce forest density and improve forest health. Hand piles result from crews using chainsaws to thin the forest and then piling the unmarketable limbs, saplings, and brush.
This season’s pile burning could begin as soon as October 26, 2021 in Pinedale near the White Pine Ski area, and continue through November, depending on weather and fuels conditions. Piles are only ignited when fuels managers are confident that the project can be undertaken safely and successfully. Snow cover, fuel moisture, precipitation, wind, temperature, and available firefighter staffing are all taken into account before beginning a pile burn.
Piles which are ready for burning are prioritized based on elevation, aspect, access, and proximity to homes. Smoke, flames, and glowing embers are often visible, and are a normal part of pile burning operations. Snow helps contain the piles and firefighters monitor the area during and after the burn. Public and firefighter safety is always the number-one priority in burning operations.
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