Smoke From Prescribed Burns Should End Soon
Smoke From Prescribed Burns Should End Soon
Prescribed burns are ramping up across the Northern Sierra before this weekend's rain, leading to temporary smoke impacts. Officials say these fires are vital for long-term wildfire prevention.
With rain on the way as soon as Friday, prescribed burners are trying to get as many acres cleared as possible, including today (Thurs.). And that’s meant some air quality issues this week, including in Western Nevada County. Julie Hunter is the Executive Director of the Northern Sierra Air Quality Management District. She says most of these controlled burns are designed to reduce wildfire fuels, with most being conducted by the Forest Service, but also some from Cal Fire. They’re referred to as “under burns”…
Hunter says although they can be a nuisance, the smoke is mainly considered unhealthy for sensitive groups, such as people with breathing issues and allergies. The worst quality is normally during the early evening and morning hours. Then it improves, as the warmer air helps clean it out. She also mentions that there will be more air movement today, which should result in even more smoke dispersal. Hunter says how much burning the District allows each day is determined by a complex number of factors. Projects ae considered on a case-by-case basis…
Prescribed burns also recycle nutrients back into the soil,
kill unwanted pests or diseases, and encourage the growth of fire-dependent
plant and tree species. They also maintain open spaces, stimulate fresh
vegetation, and create nesting areas.
More from Health
Caregiver Burnout Topic Of Education Series
Foothills Compassionate Care hosts a workshop Wednesday at 12:30 p.m. to help caregivers combat burnout with practical tools and expert guidance. RSVP online to join this supportive session.
10,000 gallons of sewage has entered Wolf Creek at Joyce and Whiting Streets.
10,000 gallons of sewage has entered Wolf Creek in Grass Valley at Joyce and Whiting streets. The Nevada County Department of Environmental Health has been notified that a sewage spill caused by a pump failure at a lift station occurred…
REVISED: 65 Thousand Gallons of Sewage Spilled into Wolf Creek
The Nevada County Environmental Health Department has revised its estimates from 10,000 gallons to 65 thousand gallons of sewage that spilled into Wolf Creek in Grass Valley at Joyce and Whiting streets from a pump failure. The pump…