Lassen Volcanic National Park completed treatment of 50 acres in the Mineral Headquarters Prescribed Burn project. Fire crews from the USFS and Whiskeytown National Recreation Area assisted local fire staff throughout the implementation of the project.
The goal of the project was to interrupt the continuity of the fuels which have accumulated in the absence of natural fire. Historical fire occurrence in these vegetation communities was every 5-20 years, shaping and maintaining this community. Reintroduction of fire and subsequent maintenance treatments of this area will help restore the natural fire processes. These prescribed burns will also protect the historic administration area by providing a buffer from destructive, intense crown fires and provide for future firefighter and public safety.
Approximately 95% of the project area has received manual thinning in recent years to help reduce fuel loading producing more fire resistant and resilient fuel profiles around the headquarters area.
During fire operations crews utilized engines to protect historic structures, overhead power lines, historic fences, propane tanks and a historic gravesite.
The information plan for this project included timely press releases, the use of informational flyers and personal contact to inform the local community about the project. The project was also posted on the fire management web page in the park’s official web site including news releases, project progress and photographs.
The ignition was completed in two days and the project was monitored and patrolled until it was declared out.
Contact: Scott Isaacson, Fire Communication and Education Specialist
Phone: (530) 595-4444 ext. 5162
*This story supports the National Fire Plan |
