Rocky Mountain National Park officials are planning to conduct prescribed burns around certain sections of the park within the coming weeks to reduce the threats a wildfire could present to surrounding communities and park infrastructure.

The burn is scheduled to occur in March, but depending on weather conditions it could happen later during the spring.

It will occur in the South Lateral Moraine area and a 200-acre section near Bear Lake Road between the Big Thompson Bridge and Hollowell Park.

Officials said the total length of the burn is unknown and will depend on weather conditions. If conditions are suitable, the burn will happen during the week and smoldering and smoke emission efforts could last 3 to 10 days.

The process could take several weeks in an attempt to limit the amount of smoke production.

In past years, fire crews were able to take advantage of previous and existing prescribed fire and hazardous fuels treatment areas that provided a barrier between the blaze and Estes Park during the East Troublesome Fire and Fern Lake Fire. 

RMNP officials say smoke may be visible in and outside of the park, but efforts will be made to minimize its impacts on visitors and nearby communities. 

Anyone who has questions about the controlled burn can contact the park’s information office at 970-586-1206.