Fishlake National Forest is conducting prescribed fire operations in the Fremont River Ranger District starting October 8, 2026. These operations are expected to continue through Saturday, October 10, 2026, as weather conditions allow.
The prescribed burns are planned for the east side of Boulder Mountain between Frisky Creek and Pleasant Creek above Highway 12 on Forest Service administered lands. Fire personnel will initially use hand ignitions with drip torches on October 8, before transitioning to aerial ignitions on October 9 and October 10 using helicopters equipped with helitorchs.
The primary objective of this burn is to reduce hazardous fuel loads and protect communities from catastrophic wildfire by clearing dead and down debris that has accumulated since the previous treatment in the early 2000s. Additionally, the operation aims to revitalize the forest ecosystem by improving wildlife habitat structure and stimulating native plant growth.
A closure order is in effect for public safety, and motorists should watch for warning signs along roads near all prescribed fire areas. Smoke may be visible from surrounding communities in Garfield and Wayne counties and is expected to be noticeable along Highway 12. Drivers are advised to slow down and turn on headlights when encountering smoke on the road.
The National Weather Service is assisting with the prescribed burn, and weather conditions will be evaluated in the hours before a burn begins. If conditions warrant, scheduled prescribed fire activities may be canceled. County emergency management officials will be notified when burning begins.
For more detailed information about air quality, the public can visit AirNow online or use their app. Forest-wide news and updates are available on the Fishlake National Forest Facebook page, and wildfire information for Utah can be found at www.utahfireinfo.gov or by following @UtahWildfire on X.
