White River National Forest Prepares Winter Pile Burns Near Aspen
The U S Forest Service will launch prescribed pile burning across selected areas of the White River National Forest as part of its ongoing wildfire mitigation strategy. Crews will begin work when snowfall is sufficient and weather conditions help smoke disperse safely. Officials emphasize that the scheduled burns are too distant to affect Aspen’s air quality.
Key Points
• Operations will begin in early winter and may continue through spring 2026.
• Burn sites span the Dillon, Eagle Holy Cross and Aspen Sopris Ranger Districts.
• Residents near burn areas may see smoke, but impacts to Aspen are not expected.
• Safety guidance includes checking air quality, limiting outdoor activity during smoke and using respirator masks when needed.
These planned burns highlight the region’s proactive approach to reducing wildfire threats while improving long term forest health. More updates will be released as weather patterns determine when crews can begin work.
By: River Stingray | The Aspen Times | Nov 19, 2025
Photo: The Aspen Times archives