The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area plans to start prescribed burning in the eastern Gorge soon when the seasonal shift in weather occurs.  This year’s focus includes land east of Bingen and White Salmon and just west of the Klickitat River and Lyle.  Prescribed burning may occur at various times between September and January, depending on local conditions.  The actual day of ignition for the burns will be selected when factors such as humidity, wind speed and direction, temperature and moisture levels of understory vegetation help ensure a low intensity, well-controlled fire.  Burns only occur on days when the Washington State Smoke Management Office approves that weather conditions will aid in smoke dispersal.  Smoke may be visible on Highway 14 and Interstate 84 at times during the burns.  Once specific dates for burning are confirmed, details will be posted on the National Scenic Area’s Facebook and Twitter accounts.  Those with asthma can request to be on a special call list for advance notifications by contacting the National Scenic Area office at 541-308-1700.