Prescribed fires in the area

The Manti-La Sal National Forest is planning prescribed fire operations beginning late March within San Juan County, pending all required approvals.
They estimate the work to continue through April as weather conditions allow.
Prescribed fires help reduce overgrown vegetation to help protect communities, infrastructure and natural resources from wildfires.
Prescribed fires planned include:
• North Elk Ridge Prescribed Fire. The project covers approximately 12,750 acres, with 5,600 acres burned in 2025. There are 7,150 acres remaining, mostly due west of South Cottonwood Road. Overall, the treatment area is 17 miles northwest of Blanding near Elk Ridge Road and Cause Way Road.
• Shingle Mill Prescribed Fire. The project area is approximately 4,300 acres. Crews will concentrate on the South Creek Rd area. The treatment area is two miles west of Monticello near Harts Draw Loop Road and Shingle Mill Draw Road.
• Mormon Pasture Mountain Prescribed Fire. The entire project area is 2,050 acres. Crews estimate 800-1,000 acres to be treated if conditions allow. Overall, the treatment area is located between North Cottonwood Road and Mormon Pasture Mountain Road.
Area closures are not anticipated, though delays for firefighter and public safety are expected. Watch for warning signs along roads near all prescribed fire areas before and during burns. 
Residents may experience smoke during the prescribed burns. When driving, slow down and turn on your headlights when you encounter smoke on the road.
Crews will evaluate weather conditions in the hours before a burn begins. If conditions warrant, scheduled prescribed fire activities may be canceled.