Siuslaw National Forest firefighters plan to burn about an acre of meadow near the Marys Peak Day Use Area parking lot on Wednesday afternoon in an effort to clear out non-native grasses and give native plants a better foothold.
The burn could be postponed if weather or vegetation conditions don’t line up with the requirements of the burn plan, according to the Forest Service.
Michele Holman, district ranger for the Central Coast Ranger District, said fire has long played a role in shaping the peak’s meadows.
“Fire is one tool we have for invasive species management,” Holman said. “Marys Peak meadows have historically been burned to maintain their character. We have the opportunity to reintroduce fire to the landscape, and it will help us manage the meadows and support the growth of native plant species.”
Ahead of the burn, crews will mow a fireline around the edge of the planned burn area and lay hose along it. A fire engine stationed in the parking lot will supply water to the hose line, and firefighters will use it to put out hot spots. The Forest Service said the fireline, hoses and personnel on site are meant to keep the fire within its planned boundary.
If conditions are right and fire danger is low, crews will ignite the meadow grass inside the perimeter and watch the fire until it goes out. Ignition is expected to wrap up in a single day, though crews will check the area through the rest of the week for lingering hot spots or smoke.
Once the burn is complete, native plants and seeds will be spread across the site.
The Marys Peak Day Use Area and the road beyond Marys Peak Campground will be closed to visitors while crews are actively working. The Forest Service is also asking people to stay off trails in the area.
Smoke may be visible from nearby roads and trails, but officials expect it to be minimal. Air quality information is available at airnow.gov.
The Forest Service also has pile burning planned on the Hebo and Central Coast ranger districts. Anyone unsure whether smoke is coming from a planned burn can check with their local fire department, county emergency services or a nearby Siuslaw National Forest ranger station.