Controlled Burns Planned for the Fall

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife plans to conduct controlled burns on two eastern Washington wildlife areas this fall to reduce wildfire risks and enhance wildlife habitat.

If conditions allow, those burns could begin as early as Oct. 9 on the Sinlahekin Wildlife Area in Okanogan County and  the Oak Creek Wildlife area in Yakima County.

However, the Washington Department of Natural Resources will not issue the necessary permits until fall rain and cooler temperatures allow the agency to lift the current burn ban.

No roads will be closed during the proposed burns, although there could be some short-term congestion on some primitive roads during burn operations.

WDFW is coordinating with other agencies to provide assistance with the burns, and is using private contractors and equipment from local communities.