News Release

For Release:  Jan. 26, 2009      
Contact: Jeff Fontana (530) 252-5332
CA-N-09-23

BLM to Begin Pile Burning Projects at Eagle Lake

Fire crews from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) will soon begin burning piles of tree limbs and brush on public lands at the north shore of Eagle Lake as part of the Stones-Bengard hazardous fuels reduction project.
 
Crews plan to ignite about 50 slash piles beginning Wednesday, Feb. 4, and continue for several weeks.   Piles will be burned only on days when weather allows for safe and successful burning.  The debris piles will continue to smolder for several weeks.  Wet conditions and snow cover will prevent fire spread.   Crews will monitor the burn piles.
 
The 50 slash piles north and west of County Road A-1 were created during woodland thinning projects.
 
The 700-acre Stones-Bengard project has been underway for several years.  It aims to reduce wildfire risk for north shore communities by reducing the density of juniper stands.  Work also improves the diversity of plants, improving wildlife habitat.

The BLM Eagle Lake Field Office is coordinating with the Lassen Fire Safe Council and the Stones-Bengard Community Services District on the project.

-BLM-

Eagle Lake Field Office     2950 Riverside Drive     Susanville, CA  96130