The project will be led by the Deschutes National Forest and will occur in the recently expanded area of the park, near the Tree Farm Development, on the east side of Tumalo Creek. The operation will take one-to-two days, and signs are posted noting the closure. Park staff will also be stationed at key trailheads to alert visitors. Once the area is reopened, signs and staff will be removed.

 

On Thursday, fire managers for the Ochoco National Forest hope to burn about 550 acres in the McKay area, 14 miles northeast of Prineville. Ignitions are expected in late morning, and smoke is expected to be most visible at that time, although it's likely to linger for several days. The Forest Service is working with the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation to improve habitat and forage for big game and livestock, with the burn, while introducing fire back into a fire-adapted Ponderosa Pine and Fir ecosystem. 

 

 

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