Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area fire management officials plan to implement two prescribed burns Wednesday and Thursday in the upper Catherine Creek Drainage between Bingen and Lyle.  If weather conditions allow, the prescribed burns are anticipated to take two days to complete.  The objective is to reduce long-term wildfire risk through reductions in existing fuel loading, to restore the ecological functions of a fire adapted ecosystem to the area, and to improve wildlife habitat and biodiversity.  Forest visitors are encouraged to plan ahead and avoid the area during prescribed burning activities.  While there won’t be a direct impact to the Coyote Wall and Catherine Creek trail systems, visitors may see or smell smoke while on the trails.  Smoke may be visible on Highway 14 and Interstate 84 at times during the prescribed burn.  When smoke is present, motorists should reduce speeds and turn on headlights.