Controlled Burns Planned Near Idyllwild and Pine Cove to Reduce Wildfire Risk

Fire crews are carrying out controlled burns near the mile-high communities of Pine Cove and Idyllwild as part of an effort to reduce wildfire danger ahead of the summer season.

According to the Riverside County Fire Department, prescribed burning operations began Thursday morning and are expected to continue again Friday, weather permitting. Officials say calm conditions, light precipitation, and minimal wind have created ideal circumstances for safely conducting the burns.

Crews are targeting no more than 10 acres of excess vegetation, primarily in the form of slash piles. The work is focused within the Red Hills Project Area inside the San Bernardino National Forest.

Fire officials emphasized that prescribed burns are one of the most effective tools available to reduce hazardous fuels and limit the intensity of future wildfires. The operations involve igniting vegetation piles that were previously constructed and carefully prepared.

Residents in nearby mountain communities, as well as drivers traveling along Highways 74 and 243 and Interstate 10, are being advised not to be alarmed by visible smoke in the area. Fire officials say drifting smoke may be seen from surrounding communities but should disperse quickly and is not expected to pose a health risk.

Each day’s burn is scheduled to begin shortly after 7 a.m. and conclude before nightfall. Operations are closely monitored throughout the day and will be suspended immediately if winds increase or humidity levels drop too low.

No road closures are in effect as a result of the controlled burns, according to fire officials.

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