CODY — The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Cody Field Office, in coordination with the U.S. Wildland Fire Service, plans to conduct a prescribed burn in the Short Fork Meeteetse Creek Drainage area, 20 miles west-northwest of Meeteetse, as part of BLM’s commitment to keeping public landscapes healthy and productive.  

Approximately 700 acres of sagebrush, grass, juniper and conifer encroachment will be targeted to reduce hazardous fuel loading, increase forage availability, and increase wildlife habitat.

Prescribed fire projects follow strict approval, permitting, and environmental review processes. Each project includes specific design features and safety measures to meet treatment goals while minimizing impacts on other resources. Every burn is carried out under a detailed prescribed fire plan, with public and firefighter safety as the top priority. While no vegetation treatment is risk-free, the planning process works to reduce risk as much as possible. Wind River Bighorn Basin District fire crews may also assist partner agencies and landowners with additional treatments.

The prescribed burn is expected to occur within the next few weeks, pending suitable weather conditions. During operations, smoke may be visible from long distances but should clear quickly depending on weather conditions. Hunters, recreationists, and other public land users should remain aware of project locations and ongoing prescribed fire activity.

For more information, contact Fuels Program Manager, Rance Neighbors at (307) 347-5148.