Bighorn National Forest announces pile burning plans

Bighorn National Forest staff is planning pile burning operations this fall and winter into 2026, pending required approvals and weather conditions. Prescribed fires help reduce overgrown vegetation to help protect local communities, infrastructure and natural resources from wildfires.

Pile burning areas include the Antelope Butte Ski area and Crater Ridge area on the Medicine Wheel Ranger District; Lynx Park and sites along Highway 16 on the Powder River Ranger District and the Burgess Junction and Big Goose areas on the Tongue Ranger District.

Residents may experience smoke during planned burning. For more detailed information about air quality, go to AirNow online or download the app. When driving, slow down and turn on your headlights when you encounter smoke on the road.