Controlled burns to begin in several open space areas April 17

Controlled Burn on SR 224 in March, 2023. Photo: TownLift

PARK CITY, Utah — Controlled pile burns will begin on Wednesday, April 17, in areas throughout Park City as part of spring wildfire mitigation.

Approximately 800 pile burns will be carried out by professional contractors in several open space areas, including Rossi Hill, Daly/Prospect Ridge, Treasure Hill and open space below the Ontario Lodge.

According to the U.S. Forest Service, pile burning is a type of prescribed fire where firefighters pile and burn forest debris to reduce an area’s wildfire risk. The piles are made from leftover debris after fuel reduction projects that involve thinning or cutting trees in the forest.

According to a news brief from Park City Municipal, residents can expect the following:

• Smoke will be visible during operations and as piles smolder overnight.
• Piles may remain hot for several days after ignition.
• Crews will be igniting and monitoring piles until all heat is extinguished.
• Crew vehicles will be parked on the roadside near work sites.
• Trail/Area closures will be placed as necessary.

Residents have been asked not to report the fires. Find more information on Park City’s spring 2024 wildfire mitigation plan here.

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