Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue plans to execute a series of prescribed burns on Emerald Mountain over the coming months, weather and fuel conditions permitting, according to a statement released on Tuesday. 

These scheduled fires aim to reduce wildfire fuel buildup by igniting accumulated slash piles from wildfire mitigation efforts over the summer. Residents may notice plumes of smoke in the area during these operations, which are carefully monitored to ensure safety and air quality standards.

“We’re currently waiting for conditions to align,” said Deputy Fire Chief Ian Satterfield in the statement. “With shifting weather patterns in the weeks ahead, conditions are looking favorable for pile burning. We want residents to know this work may begin at any time. We’ll issue a notice the day of once a burn window has been confirmed.”

The fire crews will conduct the burns only under optimal conditions, such as during snowfalls or when air ventilation is rated as “good” to “excellent.” Coordination with Routt County Environmental Health will prioritize minimizing smoke impact on the community. 

Community members are asked to steer clear of active burn zones for safety reasons and not to report smoke to 911 unless there’s an unrelated emergency.

For more information, contact Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. at 970-879-7170.