Tribes plan prescribed burns this week

The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes Division of Fire Fuels Program plans to conduct prescribed fires on the Flathead Indian Reservation this week.

The prescribed burns are slated for 255 acres near St. Mary’s, 162 acres around Kicking Horse and Ninepipes reservoirs, and 64 acres near Dog Lake, south of Hot Springs.

According to a Division of Fire press release, burning will only take place if weather conditions – including temperature, wind, fuel moisture and smoke ventilation – are favorable. Firefighters implement, monitor and patrol each burn to make sure it meets forest health and public safety goals.

Underburning is a type of prescribed fire treatment that reduces surface and ladder fuels under the forest canopy. This approach is especially critical in areas adjacent to communities at risk of wildfire impacts.

According to a press release, these prescribed burns are carefully planned and managed to reduce wildfire risk, mimic the natural role of fire on the landscape to maintain and help restore healthy forest conditions.

Smoke is apt be visible for several days after the prescribed burns, which are implemented in compliance with Montana air quality standards and coordinated with the Montana Department of Environmental Quality.

Open burning season begins Oct. 1. For more information, follow CSKT Division of Fire on Facebook.