The following is a press release issued by CAL FIRE Mendocino Unit:
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), Mendocino Unit personnel plan to conduct a prescribed burn of approximately 5 acres on state owned property at Howard Forest, Mendocino CAL FIRE Unit Headquarters, 17501 N. Highway 101. Willits. The burn will start on Tuesday, June 15, 2021 through Wednesday, June 16, 2021 approximately 10:00 am to 4:30 p.m. each day. Smoke and aircraft will be visible in the area.
This burn is to promote natural regeneration, enhance wildlife habitat, protect watershed values and to provide training for fire personnel. Fire is an essential ecological process in fire-dependent ecosystems, such as California wildlands. However, over a century of fire suppression has led to wildlands, woodlands and rangelands that are unable to withstand normal droughts, insect outbreaks or wildfires. The purpose of any fuel reduction project is to change the size and composition of the fuels in the forest, creating a break in fuel continuity.
The burn will be conducted under very tight restrictions for the personal safety of firefighters and area residents. If there are any indications that the burn cannot be conducted in a safe manner, such as high winds or local fire activity, the bum will be cancelled. CAL FIRE reminds all residents that their safety is of the utmost concern.
For information on how to create Defensible Space, as well as tips to prevent wildfires, visit www.Ready For Wildfire.org.
