Liza Pulsipher is the Sawtooth National Forest North Zone Fire Prevention & Education Specialist.
The end of August is here and for many of us (including myself) that means back to school. The long days of camping and enjoying campfires in the Sawtooth National Forest are slowly winding down. We have passed the anniversary mark of last year's Castle Rock Fire and so far have avoided another large fire in our area. However, each year is different and holds surprises. The vegetation has dried out and the green hills have turned brown and afternoon storms have the potential to bring lightning. Smokey Bear warns us that the fire level is high; but what exactly does that mean?
The system to determining these levels and the corresponding precautionary actions are determined by a combination of many different factors, including burning conditions, fire activity and resource availability. It is a great way to warn locals and visitors of current fire potential and allow them to tailor their actions to mitigate their potential of starting a wildfire. The ratings start at low (green) and continue through moderate (blue), high (yellow), very high (orange) and extreme (red). Currently, Smokey warns us that the danger level is high (yellow). That means all fine, dead fuels ignite readily and fires start easily from most causes. Unattended brush and campfires are likely to escape. Fires spread rapidly and short-distance spotting is common. Fires may become serious and their control difficult unless they are attacked successfully while small. When Smokey's sign turns red, this may lead to fire restrictions being placed on the forest which can mean bans on campfires, smoking, chainsaw use, etc.
Luckily, so far this year our forest has not been placed under fire restrictions and those of you who are not going back to school can continue to enjoy recreating on it.
