BLM Alaska Fire Service to Conduct Aerial Firefighting Simulations
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(FAIRBANKS, Alaska) – BLM Alaska Fire Service will conduct air simulations in the Chena Lakes Recreational Area tomorrow. This annual exercise combines a multitude of BLM AFS aerial firefighting resources and brings them together to recreate attacking a wildfire using mostly aviation assets. The air attack simulation will include airplanes that will drop parachuting smokejumpers and cargo loads into the area, as well as helicopter slinging loads of supplies. An Alaska Division of Forestry aircraft is also participating this year. This exercise occurs with the cooperation with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The simulation will occur as long as weather conditions and staffing allow. The public can view the exercise from the parking lot next to the dike.
Pilots should check the Notices to Airmen (NOTAM) for information about the simulation and avoid flying over these areas while flights are taking place.
What: Wildland firefighting air attack simulation
Where: Chena Lakes flood plain in the Chena Lakes Recreational Area near Fairbanks
When: 10:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 16
Media: For requests to cover the training simulation, contact Beth Ipsen, AFS public affairs specialist at (907)356-5511 or (907)388-2159.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.