Monument Ridge burn to resume
by Bridger-Teton National Forest
September 22, 2010
BIG PINEY – The Bridger-Teton National Forest plans to conduct phase two of the Monument Ridge prescribed burn in the Bondurant area this fall. The Monument Ridge burn, which is located west of Bondurant on the Big Piney Ranger District, is approximately 1,000 acres. Phase one, 973 acres, was implemented in the fall of 2006. Over the next several years, more work is planned for the Monument Ridge project area, ultimately treating approximately 4,000 total acres in multiple phases. The Monument Ridge is a cooperative project supported by Wyoming Game and Fish Department.
The primary objective for this burn is to reduce sagebrush and regenerate aspen for wildlife transitional winter range. Monument Ridge provides important spring-summer forage and habitat for mule deer, elk, moose, and several other wildlife species. Burning will improve the vigor and production of these vegetative communities to maintain healthy wildlife that use this area. Additional benefits will be to restore fire to the landscape representing a more historical and natural role in the environment, reduction in hazardous fuels which will improve management of future wildland fires, and also to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire in the Bondurant area.
Engines, hand crews, and possibly a helicopter from the Teton Interagency Fire Management organization will be utilized to conduct the burn operation. This project is expected to be carried out beginning in mid-September until possibly late October. Actual ignition dates will be dependent on meeting strict parameters for weather and fire behavior conditions. Forest users may experience temporary smoky conditions in the vicinity of these fires, and camping will not be allowed in the burn areas while the projects are being implemented. Interagency fire managers will attempt to minimize any adverse impacts to recreationists and residents as the burns proceed.
For more information, visit www.tetonfires.com or call the Big Piney Ranger District at 307-276-3375.
|
