MENDOCINO NATIONAL FOREST, Calif. – Grindstone Ranger District fire managers are conducting the Alder Springs prescribed fire approximately 16 miles from Elk Creek  this week.

Crews may ignite 20 to 90 acres depending on weather and environmental conditions.

The Alder Springs project is a ridge-based fuel break that follows the ridgeline from the junction of the M3 Road and FH7, past Alder Springs to the Camp Ellendale area. Smoke may be visible from I-5 and surrounding areas.

The goal of this project is to improve forest health, remove hazardous fuels, protect the Alder Springs Community and adjacent cabins, and increase firefighter safety.

Prescribed fires are an essential part of the Mendocino National Forest’s fire management program. They are used to improve forest health, reduce hazardous fuels, restore nutrients and create future fire breaks.

The burns are conducted within a “prescription” that is determined by appropriate fuel moisture, temperature, humidity, wind and ventilation.

The ignition of all prescribed fires is dependent on the availability of personnel and equipment, favorable weather, conditions that minimize smoke impacts as best as possible and California Air Resources Board approval.