Huron-Manistee National Forests announces fuels reductions program for 2025 across both zones

CADILLAC, Mich., March 13, 2025 – Huron-Manistee National Forests’ (HMNFs) Fire Leadership has identified wildfire fuels reduction projects as opportunities for prescribed fires in Wexford, Manistee, Lake, Mason, Oceana, Newaygo, Muskegon, Alcona, Crawford, Iosco and Oscoda Counties. Alerts will be placed on the Huron-Manistee’s social media to inform the public that a prescribed burn may be occurring in their area. During the operational phase, firefighters secure the lines and monitor the fire daily until it is considered extinguished. Any fire lines created will be allowed to grow back with vegetation. While smoke may be seen and smelled many miles away for several days afterwards, burning material is extinguished near the outer edges. Interior logs and stumps may burn for a few days following ignition. Prescribed burns are planned events that are matched to predetermined weather/fuel parameters. Fuel breaks and additional ground resources such as engines, dozers and specially trained fire personnel are used to carryout prescribed burning. Residents and motorists may encounter smoke, fire personnel and heavy equipment in the area. In 2024, the HMNFs conducted 62 prescribed burns treating 7,421 acres. Treating hazardous fuels with prescribed fire and vegetation management increases chances of success in stopping large, destructive wildfires that threaten timber, wildlife, infrastructure, and homes. Applying prescribed fire on the land at the right place, at the right time, under the right conditions benefits the land and the surrounding communities. Prescribed fires are conducted with the safety of the public and firefighters as the highest priority. Burns will only occur when appropriate resources are available. If it is necessary to temporarily close Forest roads and trails, the Forest Service will notify the public of these closures with signage and posts to social media of scheduled burns, updates and cancellations on Facebook and X on the day of the burning.