Shoshone National Forest Planning Prescribed Burns
Written by Mac Watson on April 26, 2023
After a tough winter, as temps warm up and the snow on the ground melts, there is no doubt spring is here in the Cowboy State. With temperatures climbing and the chance of snow and ice receding, the task of clearing forests of dead wood and growth that could actually be a forest fire accelerator becomes necessary.
The Shoshone National Forest is planning to conduct prescribed fire projects this spring in multiple areas on the southern half of the Forest. Weather will dictate when and where fire management personnel complete prescribed fire projects.
The objectives of these prescribed fire projects are to improve aspen tree regeneration, restore wildlife habitat, and enhance forage for domestic species. Completion of the projects will also help reduce hazardous fuels, aiming to decrease the intensity of any future wildfires in the area. Prescribed fire projects may be implemented in the following areas over the coming months:
• 165 acres in the Charlie Creek area of Wiggins Fork north of Dubois
• 785 acres in Maxon Basin southwest of Lander
• 1300 acres in the Torrey Rim/Whiskey Mountain area near Dubois
Prior to the start of any prescribed fire project, adjacent landowners will be notified and signs will be posted in nearby areas. Smoke may be visible in surrounding areas during these projects. For more information, please contact the Wind River Ranger District in Dubois at 307-455-2466 or the Washakie Ranger District in Lander at 307-332-5460.
As America’s first national forest, the Shoshone National Forest has 2.4 million acres of diverse terrain and a mission to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the forest to meet the needs of present and future generations.
