What happens when a community prescribe-burns together?

Wednesday October 7, 2026 at 6:30pm, Winthrop Library

Hear directly from landowners who have used prescribed fire on their properties, what they hoped to accomplish, how the PBA helped, and what happened afterward. Plus, hear from the volunteers who have become the backbone of this community effort and why they keep on coming back!

It takes all kinds of neighbors to build a thriving community-supported prescribed fire network. Share with us how you’d like to be involved!

Fall Learn to Burn Workshop

October 17, 2026 in Winthrop (RSVP below for location)

We’re excited to host another Learn to Burn workshop in the Methow this Fall.

This hands-on day is designed to help transform our relationship with fire into knowledge and empowerment.

Participants will gain practical experience in

What influences fire behavior
How to plan for a safe burn on private land
Control line construction and site preparation
Taking weather and understanding forecasts
Drip torch safety and controlled burning techniques
Proper tool use
Pump operation and hose set up around a burn area

Most of all, you’ll be helping build a network of people who understand fire, because more trained people means stronger, safer communities.

Whether you're a landowner, community member, or simply curious about fire, this is an experience that will shift your relationship with fire and the landscape around you.

When: Saturday October 17, 2026, starting at 9am  

Where: We’ll be sending the location to people who RSVP below.

What to bring: We’ll be spending some of the day outside so be dressed for it. You may want to bring gloves for the more hands-on sessions. Bring your favorite mug; we’ll have warm beverages and snacks available.

You can show up for whatever portion of the day you’re interested in if you can’t make it for the whole day.

Please RSVP for this event so we can plan accordingly.

The event is free and all ages are encouraged to attend!

We’d love to see you there.

Are you excited about the event? Check out these additional resources ahead of time!

Demonstration Burn

Sunday, October 18, 2026

Where: Location to be decided based on conditions

What to Bring: Please come fed and ready to go. Snacks will be provided throughout the day for people to keep their energy up as needed. Please remember to bring a water container for you to drink out of. We will also be providing some drinks. A late lunch will be provided after ignitions free of charge.

Make sure to WEAR NATURAL FIBER CLOTHING ONLY (synthetic materials will melt!). CLOSED-TOE SHOES ARE A MUST, and should ideally be leather boots. Bring leather work gloves, nomex, eye protection, and a hard hat if you have them. Protective equipment will be provided if you don't have what you need. Be prepared to get dirty!

People are welcome to just come and observe the fire. Children are welcome with adult supervision. It’s a great opportunity for families to experience a safe, gentle fire.

If you’re interested in actively participating in the burn we welcome all experience levels. Basic instruction will be provided to all but it would be best if you attended the Learn to Burn event the previous day to really be prepared.

Please RSVP in advance so we can keep you updated based on burning conditions.

Why Attend Our Events?

Our community has gone through its share of destructive wildfires over the years. It is therefore not surprising that many people may experience fear, anxiety, and even helplessness just at the thought of fire.

However, there is a different way to experience and relate to fire and the North Cascades Prescribed Burn Association was created to help shape a more positive relationship and shift the narrative around fire.

Indigenous people have revered and used 'good' fire for thousands of years to rejuvenate the landscape, promote the growth of culturally important plants, and reduce the risk of destructive wildfires around their communities. We are inspired by their knowledge and wisdom to rebuild a culture of acceptance around beneficial fire.

To that end, the North Cascades Prescribed Burn Association provides community members with free education and workshops on the use of prescribed fire.

Here are some reasons why you may want to attend these events:

Transform fear of fire into respect and understanding by experiencing prescribed fire up close in a safe, supportive setting.
Gain a sense of agency by increasing your understanding of how to respond to a wildfire, and how to be better prepared for one.
Learn first hand how fire may behave in different fuels and conditions.
Understand the tools, preparation, and control features used to mitigate risk.
Safely use fire equipment and build comfort around it.

Most of all, you’ll be helping build community capacity
because more trained people means stronger, safer communities.

Whether you're a landowner, community member, or simply curious about fire, our events provide an experience that can shift your relationship with fire and the landscape for good.

We’d love to see you there.

Please sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of this page if you want to be notified whenever we are organizing an event!