CONTROLLED BURNS ON PALOMAR MOUNTAIN

February 27, 2013 (Palomar) --If you see smoke across San Diego's north inland areas, don't worry. The Cleveland National Forest is conducting burning operations this week on the northeastern side of Palomar Mountain along the Aguanga Ridge/Palomar Divide Road this week.  The Forest Service is burning fuels that have been piled as a result of fuel treatments in the area.

"Fuels treatments reduce the risk and severity of wildfires and are commonly used to treat stands of tree," said Brian Harris, public affairs officer for Cleveland National Forest. "These fuel treatments increase resiliency to wildfires, enhance community protection, and increase the health of the forest.  Healthy forests can deliver clean water, enhance recreational opportunities and provide for wildlife habitat, while being more resilient to current and future effects of climate change."