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Pile burning efforts will continue today across the Lolo National Forest to reduce hazardous fuels from previous vegetation management operations. 

Seeley Lake Ranger District: Seeley Lake Ranger District: Firefighters will conduct up to 2 acres of pile burning on the Morrell Falls project area located 8 miles north of Seeley Lake. Smoke may be visible from Seeley Lake and Highway 83. 

Plains/Thompson Falls Ranger District:  Firefighters will burn up to 38 acres of piles located 3 miles north of Plains, and 11 miles west of Thompson Falls. Smoke may be visible from Plains, Thompson Falls, and Highway 200.   

Fuel moisture, wind, temperature, and ventilation for smoke are all considered before beginning a pile burn. Smoke and flames are often visible and are a normal part of slash pile burning operations. Snow helps contain the piles and firefighters monitor the area during and after the burn. 

Once ignited, piles are monitored by firefighters until declared out. Piles may smolder, burn, and produce smoke for several days after ignition. While smoke may linger in the area, removing these large accumulations of woody debris minimizes fire danger.