On June 28, the Manti-LaSal National Forest implemented a prescribed burn on the Ferron Creek drainage system.
Located between Willow Lake and Ferron Reservoir, the burn was ignited by hand ignitions and will continue until completed.
Successful results have been achieved at the location near Ferron Canyon Road, indicated the local ranger district. But continued monitoring is necessary. By burning under controlled conditions, effects of the fire can be managed.
While the prescribed burn is taking place, the area will be closed to the public and there may be delays or temporary closures on the canyon highway as well as the forest development road from Lizard Lake to Duck Fork.
Public traffic should expect two-hour delays in the area due to temporary closures. Full road closures will be in effect from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. Traffic may be routed to the South Side Road.
Willow Lake campground and recreation area are closed to the public throughout the burn due to air operations.
Buck Flat, Shoemaker all-terrain vehicle, Singleton Flat, Dairy and McEwan Flat roads and trails will also remain closed until further notice.
Ferron Reservoir Campground will tentatively remain open for camping and recreation during burn operations.
However, heavy smoke conditions may be experienced at times, pointed out the Price-Ferron ranger district.
Prescribed burns improve wildlife habitat, reduce fuel buildup from insect killed trees and support ecosystem diversity.
In addition, aspen is being lost by encroachment of conifers. Aspen stands provide critical habitat, forage for livestock as well as wildlife and protect stream flows in watersheds.
Aspen regenerates by sprouting following a controlled burn or other disturbances, concluded the Price-Ferron ranger district.
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