BLM AFS and U.S. Army Alaska to Conduct Prescribed Burn in Donnelly Training Area
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(FAIRBANKS) – Starting as early as Saturday and as weather and conditions allow, the Bureau of Land Management Alaska Fire Service (BLM AFS) will implement prescribed fires in the Donnelly Training Area (DTA), located approximately five miles south of Delta Junction. Prescribed burning will occur in multiple areas of the DTA for as long as two weeks. Trained personnel will monitor the burn areas during the prescribed fire period until declared out by fire management personnel.
The prescribed fire reduces the potential for a wildfire and eliminates dried grass build up. Removing the dead grass now will reduce fire danger around training targets used during the summer. The result will be green grass that has reduced flammability. Prescribed fires also increase training opportunities in support of military readiness.
Fire will only be ignited when suitable weather conditions exist and air quality requirements can be met. Smoke may be visible from the Delta Junction and Richardson Highway. Coordination with the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation and the National Weather Service will be ongoing during the prescribed fire period.
For more information contact the wildland fire information office at (907) 356-5511, or the Upper Yukon-Tanana Dispatch Center at (907) 356-5554.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.