Earlier this week we had the chance to attend a flame cap kiln burn at Dan and Bethany's near Winthrop. Dan built the kiln and Bethany was kind enough to write up the process and take pictures:   Kiln Dimensions: Base: 47” X 47”, top: 59”X59”, height: 36”, 1.5” drain valve, approximately 350 gallons capacity (1.7 cubic yards), made out of 1/8” welded steel plate (locally cut in Twisp, WA and welded by landowner outside of Winthrop) designed by landowner based on Oregon Kiln design. Weather: light wind, about 50 degrees Process: We reviewed the weather conditions, forecast, and Dept of Ecology burn information to ensure conditions were acceptable for burning, and 4 people were present to load the kiln and monitor for embers. Safety precautions: We had 2 garden hoses. The kiln was in an open area on dirt. We also had tools available (shovels, rakes, and rogue hoe). We were watching for embers. initial loading of debris the day before burning   Timeline We had previously l...

The PBA conducted a 2-acre burn up Smith Canyon under ideal weather conditions. After the hose lay was completed around the hand lines we tested all the equipment and then proceeded with ignition and slowly progressed down the hill.  The ages of the participants ranged from 12 to 75 and the two teenagers got the hang of it very quickly and seemed to enjoy seeing how fire can be beneficial to the landscape.      After a couple of hours of burning, during which I think everyone got a turn putting fire on the ground, about 90% of the ground surface was charred. We had a good snack and then went back to mop up the smoldering stumps until all smoke had disappeared. Everyone had a big smile on their face and I think it was a very good day for all!    Now we wait for the next rain to see how fast the vegetation bounces back!    

 We had a great day of learning despite the cold wind!   Tom Leuschen talked about the different factors that impact fuel moisture and fire behavior.     We then moved around to warm up a little and Xavier gave a tour of the unit that was burned last Fall, leading to a great conversation of what landowners have to do to prepare their property to receive a prescribed fire. After a great lunch provided by the PBA and the landowner, we learned how to set up a proper hose lay around a burn unit and Tom demonstrated the patterns of ignition that can be used during a burn.     Participants gained a greater appreciation and understanding for prescribed fire and most of them came back the next day for the Demonstration Burn!  

We’re in Leavenworth at the Washington Prescribed Fire Council’s Annual Meeting. Inspiring stories of Good Fire, nerdy networking and fascinating speakers are getting us stoked for upcoming PBA events and spring burning.    

We had a wonderful time connecting with fellow prescribed fire enthusiasts last night at  Backyard Burning 101 . Throughout the presentation, we covered key topics such as identifying burn units, ensuring adequate water resources, understanding local regulations, and engaging with neighbors early in the planning process. One important stage of a burn we discussed is post-burn suppression, also called  Mop Up , which involves extinguishing or removing burning material to ensure fire safety and reduce residual smoke.    

  We were thrilled to host photographer John Marshall last Monday night for an incredible presentation on the essential role of prescribed fire in land stewardship. Through his powerful photography, John highlighted the stark contrast between areas that had been thinned and prescribed burned versus those left unmanaged when wildfire came through. The difference was striking! A huge thank you to everyone who attended—we hope you left inspired and empowered to take action on your land. As John reminded us, fire will come to our communities one way or another. We can either wait for a wildfire to take its course, or we can be proactive by reducing fuels and helping your forests withstand fire through intentional, low-intensity prescribed burns. You can see more of John’s incredible work at his website: https://www.jfmarshall.com