Conducting the prescribed burns is contingent upon weather and environmental conditions that safely meet the project's objectives. The Forest Service said it consults with the National Weather Service in Duluth daily to ensure that conditions are optimal for pile burning, which requires cooler, damper weather to minimize fire spread or "creep," while making sure the debris piles are dry enough to burn. For smaller hand piles and medium-sized machine piles, higher humidity or a forecast with upcoming precipitation is preferred, the organization shared. 

According to the Forest Service, the public will see signage posted along roadways adjacent to the burn areas, and at entry points to areas accessible by ATV or foot. Significant smoke of short duration is anticipated during the ignition periods in some areas. Following ignition, and for a few subsequent days, residual, light smoke, smoldering materials, smoke or fire in some overstory trees, and creeping, slow-moving surface fire spread may be noticeable. Fire staff anticipate these conditions and will allow fire to burn within the designated project boundary, provided there is no threat of spread to the outside area. Firefighters and, when necessary, fire engines will be present on-site during ignitions. Burn areas will be patrolled on any day when fire spread is possible. Patrols may consist of staff driving or hiking into the area for checks, meaning firefighters may not be continuously visible. 

The public is requested to contact the Forest Service if fire or smoke is observed in an area where it is not expected. The contact number for the Gunflint Office is 218-387-1750, and the number for the Tofte Office is 218-663-8060.

 Image: USFS

 Image: USFS

 Image: USFS