Hamilton, MT — Spring in the Bitterroot Valley often means yard work,
slash piles, and the return of smoke drifting through our
neighborhoods. While fire is an effective tool for managing debris,
how and when we burn matters — for personal safety, for our neighbors’
health, and for reducing wildfire risk across our community.
To support safe burning practices, the Fire in the Root Council and
local partners are hosting a free Reduced-Smoke Debris Burning
Workshop on Saturday, April 18th held at the Hamilton Fire Department
at 247 Foxfield Street from 9AM to 3PM.
The workshop will feature Dr. Peter Kolb, MSU Extension Forestry
Specialist and accredited forestry research scientist, who will share
practical guidance on constructing efficient debris piles, burning
safely, reading weather conditions, and choosing the right timing to
minimize smoke production. His presentation will blend science with
real-world application, helping residents feel confident planning
their own fuel reduction projects.
After a complimentary lunch, attendees will travel to a nearby private
property for live burn demonstrations. Because safe equipment use is a
foundational step in this process, there will be an on-site chainsaw
safety session offering hands-on instruction and practical reminders
before the burn. Participants will then experience firsthand how
different pile construction methods affect smoke output and burn
efficiency.
This workshop is about more than burning debris piles — it’s about
neighbors looking out for one another and building a more
fire-adapted, resilient community together.
The event is free and open to the public. Lunch will be provided.
Please RSVP through the event link on www.fireintheroot.org [fireintheroot.org] by April
12th. For additional information, contact Fire in the Root Council at
fireintheroot@gmail.com or call 406-802-0980. A reminder email will be
sent 48 hours prior to the event.
The Fire in the Root Council is a collaborative group of Ravalli
County residents, local organizations, and agency partners dedicated
to reducing wildfire risk and strengthening community resilience
throughout the Bitterroot Valley.