Smoke could be part of the view across parts of central Nevada as land managers prepare to light prescribed burns near two mountain ranges.
The Bureau of Land Management Battle Mountain District plans to carry out prescribed burns during daylight hours when weather conditions allow, around the Roberts Mountain Range, about 15 miles northwest of Eureka, and the Shoshone Mountain Range, roughly 35 miles north of Austin.
The work could take place through March 1.
Officials say the burns are meant to lower the risk of larger wildfires by reducing built-up natural fuels across the landscape.
“Prescribed burns are an effective way for us to reduce the natural fuels that could cause wildfires and that threaten rangelands, forests, and the wildland urban interface,” said Battle Mountain’s Fuels Manager, Robert Burdick.
People traveling near the burn areas may notice wildland firefighters igniting piles in sections of land and putting out embers as needed.
Drivers will also see warning signs posted along Highway 278, Highway 50, and Highway 305 while crews are working.
BLM officials say smoke may be visible from long distances after ignition and could linger until the operations are complete.
