Forest Service fire crews began burning slash piles Tuesday at the Sunlight Peak communication site, located northwest of Sunlight Ski Resort, and will continue operations into Wednesday, a USFS news release states. The effort aims to reduce wildfire risks near critical infrastructure that serves Garfield County and surrounding areas.

The slash piles, created from a fuels reduction project, consist of dried logs, brush, and other debris cleared to improve fire safety. Crews prepared the piles last winter by thinning trees and removing hazardous materials. Snow on the ground and favorable weather conditions will allow the burns to proceed safely.

Residents in the area should expect visible smoke during the day, though some may settle overnight in valleys and drainages. Fire officials emphasize that burns are carefully managed and follow strict guidelines, including smoke permits issued by the state of Colorado.

For more information about prescribed fire smoke and its potential health impacts, visit the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment’s website.