MENDOCINO NATIONAL FOREST, Calif. – Mendocino National Forest fire crews plan to burn slash piles in various locations on the Grindstone Ranger District beginning Wednesday, Feb. 6, and continuing over the next two weeks as conditions allow.

The timeframes for burning will depend on air quality approval and the appropriate environmental conditions such as temperature, wind, fuel moisture, ventilation and humidity.

Crews may burn in the following locations:

· Nine miles southwest of Paskenta, off the M4 Road near Black Bear campground – up to 60 acres.

· Nine miles west of Paskenta, off the M2 Road – approximately 50 acres.

· Red Bluff Recreation Area – approximately one acre.

· Chico Seed Orchard – approximately five acres.

Fire managers conduct prescribed burns to reduce the potential for future severe wildfires, increase firefighter safety, remove hazardous fuels, improve wildlife habitat and protect communities and watersheds.

For firefighter and public safety, Mendocino National Forest officials remind the public to not enter or park near the project areas and to watch for firefighters and equipment in the described location.