Goosenest Ranger District to begin spring prescribed burning

YREKA, Calif., March, 20, 2026 – Fire managers on the Goosenest Ranger District of the Klamath National Forest plan to begin prescribed underburning operations next week, weather and fuel conditions permitting.

Prescribed fire is used to reduce hazardous fuel buildup and restore forest health by mimicking natural fire processes.

Historically, fire—ignited by lightning and Indigenous land stewardship practices—helped maintain resilient ecosystems by clearing dead vegetation, recycling nutrients, and supporting biodiversity.

This spring, crews will focus on two project areas:

• Cedar Mountain: Located about 10 miles southeast of Macdoel near Antelope Sink, this 600-acre project will reduce fuels to improve defensible space for Tennant and nearby properties. Additional benefits include improved wildlife habitat, reduced juniper encroachment, and enhanced aspen regeneration.
• First Creek: North of the U.S. Highway 97 Grass Lake Rest Area, this project targets 224 remaining acres within a 1,174-acre area. Work will improve forest health and resilience in mixed conifer stands. Smoke will be visible from Highway 97.

Smoke may impact nearby roads at times. Motorists should slow down, turn on headlights, and watch for firefighters and equipment when traveling through smoky areas.

For more information on these prescribed burns, contact Jennifer Erickson, Forest Fire Prevention Officer at 530-310-5690.

About the Forest Service:  The USDA Forest Service has, for more than 100 years, brought people and communities together to answer the call of conservation. Grounded in world-class science and technology — and rooted in communities — the Forest Service connects people to nature and to each other. The Forest Service cares for shared natural resources in ways that promote lasting economic, ecological, and social vitality. The agency manages 193 million acres of public land, provides assistance to state and private landowners, and maintains the largest wildland fire and forestry research organizations in the world. The Forest Service also has either a direct or indirect role in stewardship of about 900 million forested acres within the U.S., of which over 130 million acres are urban forests where most Americans live. 
 

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