JOHN DAY – The Prairie City Ranger District will begin its fall prescribed burning in the Olmstead Project area Thursday, Sept. 27, weather permitting.

The area is in the Squaw Creek drainage of the Upper Middle Fork John Day Watershed, nine miles northeast of Prairie City.

If conditions permit, two units will be ignited. The prescribed fire is intended to decrease the intensity of future wildfires and will also improve wildlife forage, rangeland and plant vigor to maintain a healthy ecosystem.

“Smoke will impact visitors in the immediate area of the burn as well as downwind. Visibility along highway 26 between Blue Mountain Summit and Austin Junction may also be impaired, particularly during the morning and evening hours for several days after the ignition is complete, so please drive with caution,” said Lance Delgado, Prairie City Fire Management Officer.

All roads leading into the project will be posted but, will remain open. Burning operation will not occur during the opening weekend of any hunting seasons (deer or elk). Maps will be posted and are available at the Malheur National Forest Supervisorís office in John Day, and Prairie City Ranger District.

For additional information contact the Malheur National Forest, 541-575-3000.