Sequoia National Forest to start controlled fires to help prevent potential wildfires

Sequoia National Forest managers say prescribed burning around the Giant Sequoia National Monument will begin once weather and smoke conditions are favorable. Burning will continue through the winter and into spring.

The areas targeted for burning are near the community of Ponderosa, south of Camp Nelson, adjacent to the Tule River Reservation, and north of Springville near Blue Ridge Road. Elevations range from 3,000 to 7,200 3,000 feet. There are approximately 400 acres where there are scattered hand piles of small limbs, brush and trees that were created from hazardous fuels reduction projects.

When burning is completed, the piles may not be entirely consumed by the prescribed fire. Some piles of remnants will be left to protect the soil from erosion and promote the growth of new vegetation.

Smoke from the prescribed burning operations will be visible in Ponderosa, Springville and adjacent mountain communities. Forest personnel will be working closely with the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District to manage smoke production and reduce any local impacts.

This story was originally published November 14, 2015 at 12:00 AM with the headline "Sequoia National Forest to start controlled fires to help prevent potential wildfires."