Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest to begin fall prescribed burning
Contact Information: Victoria Wilkins victoria.wilkins@usda.gov
Wenatchee, WA, October 15, 2025 — Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest is planning prescribed fire operations this fall beginning as early as October 16, 2025, pending all required approvals. We estimate this work to continue through the fall and winter, as weather conditions allow. We use prescribed fires to help reduce overgrown vegetation to help protect local communities, infrastructure and natural resources from wildfires.
This fall the forest will be burning piles at locations across the forest. Visit https://arcg.is/1vrCjb1 for an interactive map of planned units. This map will show units in active and monitoring status once burning begins for the season.
Areas may close to the public for several days for public safety. Watch for warning signs along Forest Service roads near prescribed fire areas before and during burns.
Residents may experience smoke during the prescribed burns. For more detailed information about air quality, go to AirNow online or download the app. When driving, slow down and turn on your headlights when you encounter smoke on the road.
We will evaluate weather conditions in the hours before a burn begins. If conditions warrant, scheduled prescribed fire activities may be canceled.
Stay informed about the scheduled prescribed fires through the forest website and social media. We will notify county emergency management officials when burning begins.