Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area fire managers are taking advantage of the cooler weather to start fall prescribed fires.  They will occur in the Seven Mile area in Oregon and Catherine Creek area in Washington over the next month as weather permits, part of an ongoing effort to reduce the potential of catastrophic wildfires and improve forest health.  Prescribed fires and other mechanical fuels treatment conducted in the Rowena drainage over the past couple of years made a significant difference in battling this summer’s Rowena Fire.  When the fire reached these treated areas fire intensity moderated which allowed firefighters to safely build fireline directly adjacent to the fire and stop the forward progression.  Smoke will be visible generally in the Courtney Road to the Major Creek area in Washington and the Rowena Creek drainage in Oregon.  The actual day of ignition for these prescribed burn projects will depend on several factors including appropriate temperature, fuel moisture, wind speed and direction.