The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) plans to begin prescribed fire operations on Monday, March 16, in the ‘Inimim Forest, located east of North Columbia in Nevada County, California. These mechanical pile burn operations could continue through June, dependent on weather conditions, air quality, resource availability, and onsite observations.
Forest Restoration Underway
The planned burns will cover approximately 250 acres near Jackass Flats Road, Silverthorne Lane, and Kadaheska Way. This treatment is part of the larger ‘Inimim Forest Restoration Project, a multi-year effort focused on improving forest health and reducing wildfire hazards.
According to Mother Lode Field Manager Jeff Horn, the efforts are intended to “protect communities in the wildland-urban interface and improve fire resiliency.” The Yuba Watershed Institute is coordinating with the BLM, utilizing crews and machinery to thin dense tree covers and brush.
Potential Impacts
Residents in Nevada City, Camptonville, and the Upper Ridge area near North Columbia and North Bloomfield may observe smoke during the burn operations. The public is advised to exercise caution near roadways where firefighters are working and to be prepared to stop for emergency vehicles.
The ‘Inimim Forest is situated on the San Juan Ridge, a 30-mile-long ridge between the South and Middle Yuba rivers, ranging in elevation from 2,500 to 3,800 feet.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the burning start?
Mechanical pile burn operations are scheduled to start on Monday, March 16, and may continue through June.
Where will the smoke be visible?
Smoke may be visible from Nevada City, Camptonville and the Upper Ridge area near the North Columbia and North Bloomfield areas.
Who is coordinating the burn?
The burn is being coordinated between the Bureau of Land Management and the Yuba Watershed Institute, and is closely coordinated with the Northern Sierra Air Quality Management District.
As the burn operations proceed, conditions will be continuously monitored, and adjustments may be made to the schedule based on evolving circumstances.
