<HTML>The National Park Service plans to conduct a series of prescribed burns in the Wawona area to protect structures from the threat of unwanted wildland fire and promote ecosystem health. Besides being used to thin forests and reduce unnatural fuel loads in forests that are in close proximity to public and private structures and use areas, prescribed fire is used to simulate the effects of a natural lightning-caused fire. Weather and air quality conditions permitting, these burns are scheduled to start today, May 28th, but may be delayed until tomorrow, May 29th.
The first burns will be located south of Wawona on Studhorse Ridge. Depending on weather and conditions, the other prescribed burn between Chowchilla Mountain Road and Big Creek to Wawona Campground may be postponed until fall. In all they total 640 acres. The units are broken down in size to minimize smoke impacts. Park staff will monitor smoke and particulate matter on a consistent basis. Despite best efforts to minimize these impacts, smoke may accumulate in the Wawona area and is typically more abundant at night and during the early morning hours. Take extra care while driving near the burn areas, by observing all warning signs posted along the roadway and using your headlights when smoke is on the road.
Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions to minimize smoke impacts to health. People with respiratory problems should use caution when exerting themselves in smoky areas.</HTML>