Foresters to touch off pile burning near Sisters

Beginning today, firefighters on the Sisters Ranger District will ignite several burn piles south of the City of Sisters in the Melvin Butte area.

As conditions remain favorable, firefighters will begin igniting approximately 120 acres of hand piles within the Vin Stewardship area. The units proposed are along the 1628 road system (off Three Creek Road) in the Melvin Butte project area.

Once ignited, units are monitored by firefighters until they are declared out.

The intent of the project is to reduce hazardous fuels and to reduce slash in areas to allow ponderosa pine to be planted in the future, the Forest Service reports.

Smoke will likely be visible from Sisters, Highway 20, Plainview and other greater Sisters area communities. If smoke drifts on to roads, motorists should slow down, turn on headlights, and proceed with care. Piles may smolder, burn, and produce smoke for several days after ignition.

If individuals feel impacted by smoke, they should avoid outdoor physical exertion and remain indoors. If people experience serious health impacts from the smoke, they should contact their doctor. For more information about smoke and health, visit the Oregon Health Authority recommendations at http://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/Preparedness/Prepare/Pages/PrepareForWildfire.aspx#health

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For more information, visit at http://www.fs.usda.gov/deschutes and follow on twitter @CentralORFire.