Pile Burning on Working Lands

Start: Saturday, March 18, 2023 9:00 AM

End: Saturday, March 18, 2023 4:00 PM

drip torch in front of burning pile
Credit: Charnna Gilmore

Pile burning is an important tool for reducing hazardous fuels, managing lands, and preparing lands for underburning. In this one-day workshop, participants will learn how to effectively build and burn juniper hand piles on a working ranch in Grenada, California. Presentations will include the important considerations and steps for burning hand piles in Siskiyou County including permit requirements, safety measures, and ecological considerations. In addition, the discussion will include subjects of wildfire defensible space, smoke management, juniper encroachment, and fire ecology. This workshop does not require any previous experience and is suited for both the backyard burner and the professional land steward. The event is hosted by the Siskiyou Prescribed Burn Association with support from Shasta Valley Resource Conservation District (SVRCD), Scott River Watershed Council, Watershed Research and Training Center (WRTC), Community Alliance with Family Farmers (CAFF).

Agenda:

  • 0900-1000 Introductions and Burn Pile Basics
  • 1000-1030 Smoke Management Plans/Air Quality Permits
  • 1030-1200 Pile Building Instruction and Activity
  • LUNCH (1200-1300)
  • 1300-1330 Burn Permits
  • 1330-1400 Pile Burn Instruction
  • 1400-1500 Ignite Piles!
  • 1500-1530 Biochar Presentation
  • 1530-1600 Reflections and Feedback

Things to Bring/What to Wear:

  • Closed-toed shoes (hiking boots, work boots)
  • Long-sleeved natural fiber clothes (jeans, cotton long sleeve shirt, general work clothes)
  • Leather Gloves
  • Eye-protection
  • Water
  • Folding chair
  • Pitchfork if you have one
  • Lunch and hand tools will be provided

Bathrooms: There will be a Porta Potty will be on site

Note: To access the site you might need to drive on uneven terrain. Make sure to plan accordingly by double checking your vehicle or carpooling with someone.