Lake Roosevelt area burns slated

DAVENPORT – Get ready for some smoky conditions at Lake Roosevelt, as officials get ready to burn piles of downed timber.

As weather allows, Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area officials will be burning downed timber in both Lincoln and Spokane County over the next several weeks.

“Safe and favorable weather conditions may occur late October through December,” officials said.

In Lincoln County, firest are planned for the Fort Spokane, Keller Ferry Marina and Spring Canyon areas.

The Fort Spokane burn pile is located near the intersection of Miles Road and Cougi Lane. And the pile in Spring Canyon is just off Spring Canyon Campground Road.

In Stevens County, fires are planned for burn piles north of the Evans Boat Launch, south of Boise Cascade Timber in Kettle Falls and east of the Gifford Boat Launch.

Officials also plan to burn multiple “handpiles” on 17 acres west of the Boise Cascade Timber and Wood facility in Kettle Falls.

Exact dates for the burn have not yet been released.

“Ignitions should be completed in one day per pile location except the Log Yard handpiles and Hunters handpiles,” officials said. “Each of these units could take up to two weeks depending on personnel availability.”

Recreational area officials said burning wood piles helps decrease fuel for forest fires and promotes forest health. Officials are hoping to minimize smoke.

“The project areas will be carefully monitored until the piles are fully extinguished,” officials said. “Residual smoke may be observed for up to two weeks post ignition.