How do I manage smoke from a prescribed fire?

There are many methods and options that can be utilized to manage smoke from a prescribed fire.

To minimize smoke problems:

  • burn smaller units;
  • burn when weather conditions are likely to produce the best dispersion;
  • burn when fuel conditions are likely to produce the least amount of smoke;
  • utilize suitable ignition techniques for smoke management;
  • conduct post-burn mop-up to reduce nuisance smoke;
  • reduce the amount of fuels to reduce smoke emissions; and
  • reduce the impact of smoke on people.

The National Weather Service fire weather forecasts are a good source of information for smoke dispersion conditions.

For more information see Smoke Management for Prescribed Burns.