Wildland Fire Use Projects Continue To Burn In Yosemite

Yosemite National Park, CA — Fire officials are continuing to monitor several lightening-caused fires in Yosemite National Park.

Approximately nine fires were considered active Thursday evening in areas around the park, consisting of about 100 total acres. The fires are currently being allowed to spread naturally, although selected fires are being confined using natural barriers and minimum impact fireline construction.

For public safety the Laurel Lakes basin is currently closed. The closure includes the Miguel Meadow to Laurel Lake Trail. Additionally, hikers may encounter active fire, firefighters, and equipment along the historic Great Sierra Wagon Road. Visitors to the area are asked to use caution while traveling in these areas. All other park areas are open with no restrictions.

Visitors and residents in the areas surrounding the fires may see increased smoke effects in the coming weeks. The National Park Service is committed to reducing smoke impacts for visitors and residents and is making every effort to provide current information so visitors may plan their stay accordingly.

Prior to fire suppression, it is estimated that historically, on average, 16,000 of Yosemite´s 747,000 acres may have burned under natural conditions each year.

For more information, contact the Fire Information Office at 209-372-0491 or click here.

Written by Sabrina Sabbagh