KAMIAH, ID – The Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests are preparing to conduct prescribed fire operations beginning the week of September 22, with work continuing through October 5 if weather conditions remain favorable.
According to the Forest Service, prescribed fires will be used to reduce hazardous fuels, clear debris from past timber harvests, and prepare land for tree planting scheduled for spring 2026. Planned burn areas include the Tinker Bugs Timber Sale Rx, covering 136 acres near Forest Service Road 286, and the FanBit Timber Sale Rx, covering 75 acres in the Fan and Trout Creek drainages.
Short-term smoke impacts are possible near several forest service roads and U.S. Highway 12. Forest officials noted that some areas may temporarily close for public safety. Warning signs will be posted near active fire sites, and residents are advised to monitor air quality conditions at fire.airnow.gov.
The agency emphasized that weather conditions will be reviewed prior to any ignition, and burns may be postponed or canceled if conditions are not suitable. Updates will be shared through the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests’ website, social media, and the InciWeb system. County emergency management offices will also be notified once operations begin.
The Nez Perce-Clearwater Fire Information Line, 208-935-6134, will remain staffed Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. for the duration of the prescribed fire period.
