BLM planning prescribed burning near Yuma, Ariz.
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YUMA, Ariz. – The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Yuma Field Office plans to conduct a prescribed burn approximately 15 miles north of Yuma, near Senator Wash Reservoir. The burn may be conducted as early as Oct. 24, though the exact start date and time for the burning operation is dependent upon appropriate weather conditions.
Burning is expected to be completed in two days and is being conducted to eliminate slash piles created during maintenance of the Imperial Dam Long Term Visitor Area. Removal of invasive vegetation in this area helps to reduce the threat of wildfire and provides safe access for firefighters and first responders in cases of emergency. Vegetation removal also improves the health of the riparian ecosystem by reducing the presence of weeds and invasive plants such as tamarisk (salt cedar).
Residents and area visitors should expect some light smoke in the area during burn operations. Impacts from the smoke should be minimal and the piles are expected to burn quickly, with smoke dissipating a short period of time. The burn is not expected to affect local traffic, and ignition will stop if smoke begins to impact roadways in the area.
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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.