News Release

Prescribed Burning in Sequoia National Park Foothills Begins May 21

Firefighters perform prescribed burning operations to reduce highly flammable, fast-drying vegetation in Ash Mountain (2023).

NPS/R. Paterson

News Release Date: May 14, 2026

Firefighters plan to conduct prescribed burning in the foothills of Sequoia National Park on May 21 – 22. Visitors who enter the parks through the southern entrance may notice this work taking place between the entrance and Foothills Visitor Center. 

The Ash Mountain prescribed burn consists of 29 acres of broadcast prescribed burning and an additional 10 acres of non-fire fuels reduction in areas that are adjacent to developed areas. This project takes place most years to reduce highly flammable, fast-drying vegetation such as tall grass near roads, buildings, and other infrastructure. Prescribed burning improves defensible space and reduces the risk of accidental ignitions in these busy visitation areas during the hot and dry summer season.  

“You may see fire, smoke, firefighters, and firefighting equipment along the roadways during prescribed burns,” said Armando Alvarez, fuels battalion chief. “Please drive carefully, do not stop your car in the road or close to fire activities, and be mindful of signage and directions from the crew.”  

Smoke impacts are expected to be localized and relatively brief, as there is little heavy, woody fuel within the burn areas. Research shows that regular prescribed burns produce less smoke than wildfire in areas where fire has been excluded.   

In all planned prescribed burning operations, weather and air quality are considered before ignitions begin. The dates for the Ash Mountain prescribed burn are subject to change if weather conditions are not suitable.