Slash Pile Burn Planned at Hells Gate State Park

Local fire department to monitor controlled burn on Friday

Apr. 17, 2026 at 12:30am

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A sweeping landscape painting in muted earth tones, with billowing clouds of smoke obscuring the rolling hills and forests of Hells Gate State Park, conveying the sublime power of the natural environment.Smoke from a controlled burn at Hells Gate State Park highlights the park's natural beauty and the careful management of its forests.Lewiston Today

Visitors to Hells Gate State Park in Lewiston, Idaho may see smoke on Friday as park employees plan to burn a slash pile. The Nez Perce County Fire department will be on-site to oversee the controlled burn, which is being coordinated with the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality and the Department of Lands.

Why it matters

Controlled burns of slash piles are a common forestry management practice to reduce wildfire risk and clear out excess vegetation. However, the smoke can be concerning to nearby residents, so it's important for the park to communicate the plans ahead of time.

The details

The slash pile burn at Hells Gate State Park is a routine maintenance activity to clear out woody debris and reduce the potential for wildfires. Park staff will be closely monitoring the burn, and the Nez Perce County Fire department will be on-site to ensure the burn is conducted safely and in compliance with environmental regulations.

  • The slash pile burn is scheduled to take place on Friday, April 18, 2026.

The players

Hells Gate State Park

A state park located in Lewiston, Idaho that offers hiking, camping, and other outdoor recreation opportunities.

Nez Perce County Fire

The local fire department that will be on-site to monitor the controlled burn at Hells Gate State Park.

Idaho Department of Environmental Quality

The state agency that regulates air quality and environmental protection, and is coordinating with the park on the burn plans.

Idaho Department of Lands

The state agency that manages public lands, including Hells Gate State Park, and is also involved in the coordination of the controlled burn.

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The takeaway

Controlled burns of slash piles are a common forestry management practice, but can be concerning to nearby residents due to the smoke. The coordination between Hells Gate State Park, the local fire department, and state environmental agencies helps ensure the burn is conducted safely and in compliance with regulations.