Sierra Pacific Industries (SPI) has agreed to pay $204,284.42 to resolve the United States’ claim for damages resulting from a 2021 wildfire that burned about 29 acres, including National Forest System lands on the Eldorado National Forest in California, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced May 22.

The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.

The wildfire, known as the “Cold Fire,” ignited on Jan. 19, 2021, on SPI land in El Dorado County. U.S. Forest Service fire investigators determined that the fire originated from one of SPI’s timber slash piles that escaped containment during a wind event.

“Our office will continue to hold individuals and corporations responsible for damages caused by wildfires,” said Beckwith. “Every fire impacting federal lands, no matter the size, is a priority.”

“These settlements are essential in restoring our landscapes after wildfires,” said U.S. Forest Service Pacific Southwest Acting Regional Forester Jason Kuiken.