Lincoln National Forest Announces Prescribed Burns to Enhance Forest Health and Reduce Wildfire Risk
The Lincoln National Forest has announced plans to conduct prescribed burning operations across its Smokey Bear and Sacramento Ranger Districts, commencing as early as November 10, 2026. These controlled burns are strategically planned to reduce hazardous fuel loads, improve overall forest health, and mitigate the risk of large, high-severity wildfires that could threaten nearby communities and natural resources. On the Smokey Bear Ranger District, the Baca Prescribed Burn Project will cover 24 acres north of Lincoln and west of Baca Campground, with ignitions potentially starting on November 10, 2026. In the Sacramento Ranger District, pile-burning operations are scheduled from November 11 through November 21, 2026, encompassing three distinct areas: 24 acres at Black Bear Campground Piles, 11 acres at Upper Karr Campground Piles, and 11 acres at Wofford Piles. These operations are contingent upon favorable weather and fuel moisture conditions, with Forest Service officials closely monitoring environmenta...