Mild winter weather helps burning operations

The slightly damp weather that has dominated the second half of January hasn’t produce much precipitation, but it has been helpful for prescribed burns in the region.

Pile burning around Turtle Rock Park was close to finishing on Thursday, according to Alpine County.

Officials say there may be some lingering smoke in the vicinity.

“Pile burning around the Markleevillage community and Turtle Rock Park areas has completed successfully,” officials said. “We would like to express our appreciation to the residents and public who have been very supportive during the operation.”

The U.S. Forest Service has completed their burn operations in the Markleeville area, according to the post. They may conduct some burning along the West Fork of the Carson River later in the season.

Anyone with questions is asked to contact Alpine County Wildfire Project Coordinator Clint Celio at ccelio@alpinecountyca.gov or 775-720-6534.

The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team conducted burns along the east shore of Lake Tahoe from Kingsbury up to Spooner this week

Members of Tahoe Douglas Fire Protection District’s Zephyr Crew have been working 5-acre burns within district boundaries.

Officials said that smoke may be present throughout the Lake Tahoe Basin and surrounding areas.

Lake Tahoe firefighters are encouraging homeowners and residents at Lake Tahoe to participate in the Tahoe Network of Fire Adapted Community program in 2024. The initiative focuses on creating Fire Adapted Communities through home hardening and defensible space, as well as prevention, planning and education.

“Creating a fire-adapted community with your neighbors empowers property owners to play a role in changing the narrative around preventing property loss and increasing safety,” said Fire Adapted Community and Firewise Leader Leona Allen. “The process allows neighbors to enhance the health of their environment, protect our neighborhoods and build stronger community bonds.”