Columbia River Gorge residents and travelers may notice smoke as fire managers ignite planned burns in the area for the rest of the winter, according to the U.S. Forest Service.
Prescribed fires are used to manage forests and protect the ecosystem by reducing hazardous fuels such as overgrown vegetation. The burns can reduce the threat of major wildfires and improve wildlife habitat, according to the forest service.
The actual day of ignition for the fires will depend on several factors including temperature, moisture and wind. Fires will only occur on days when weather conditions are favorable for safety and smoke dispersal, according to the forest service.
Smoke will generally be visible in the central Gorge, roughly between Wind Mountain and Dog Mountain on the Washington side of the river, officials said.
