PRESCRIBED FIRE BURNS PLANNED AT CUYAMACA RANCHO STATE PARK IN SAN DIEGO COUNTY

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Source:  CA Department of Parks and Recreation

December 5, 2019 (San Diego) - The California Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with the California Department of Forestry and Fire protection (CAL FIRE) and other agencies are planning to conduct prescribed burns and pile burns in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park between Dec. 16, 2019 and April 30, 2020.

These burns are part of a forest health and recovery program including vegetation management, hazardous fuel load reduction, reforestation, watershed and wildlife habitat improvement and other ecological benefits. This treatment will enhance the health of the forest by restoring essential nutrients to the soil and reducing the chance of a catastrophic wildfire.

 
The prescribed burns and pile burns are being planned and coordinated with the San Diego Air Pollution Control District in order to minimize the smoke impacts on surrounding communities. All burning depends on weather and air quality conditions that are favorable for smoke dispersal. If the conditions, such as weather or vegetation are not conducive for burning, the burns will be rescheduled.
 
Some public trails near the burn area may be closed the day of the burn. Fire suppression equipment will be staged in the vicinity on the days of the prescribed burning. People traveling near the fire burn areas may see smoke from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the day of the burn or may smell smoke as they pass through the area for three to six days after active burning. County officials urge you to take precautions and use common sense to reduce any harmful health effects by limiting outdoor activities.
 
Prescribed burns produce significantly less smoke than a wildfire does. If you see or smell smoke in your surroundings, officials recommend avoiding strenuous outdoor activity and remaining indoors as much as possible.  These precautions are especially important for children, the elderly and people with respiratory and heart conditions. Please use extreme caution while driving near prescribed fire operations due to fire personnel and equipment in the area.
   

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