Controlled burns planned for Benchmark area

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By The Associated Press

Story Published: Feb 9, 2010 at 8:28 AM MDT

Story Updated: Feb 9, 2010 at 8:28 AM MDT

GREAT FALLS - Lewis and Clark National Forest officials have approved a plan to ignite controlled fires and thin 763 acres in the Benchmark area to reduce the wildfire danger to cabins and lodges.

Work could begin this spring in the area that has been threatened three times in the past eight years by wildfires.

Rocky Mountain District Ranger Mike Munoz made the announcement late last week following an environmental assessment.

The controlled burning and thinning is part of the district's plan to remove dead branches, needles and other debris that can fuel wildfires that threaten people and buildings.

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