Prescribed Burn Planned in SoHum Today to Reduce Fire Risk and Control Invasive Grass

Cal Fire prescribed burn. [Stock image from Cal Fire]

Residents in Southern Humboldt may see smoke and increased fire activity today as fire personnel conduct a planned prescribed burn on approximately 15 acres of ranch land, weather and conditions permitting.

The prescribed burn is scheduled for today, Tuesday, June 30, in the area of Wilder Ridge Road and French Ranch Road near Ettersburg.

The project will target invasive barb goatgrass as part of an ongoing vegetation management and hazardous fuels reduction effort. According to organizers, the treatment is intended to improve the health of native plant communities, help control non-native plant species, enhance prairie habitat for wildlife, and reduce the risk of uncontrolled wildfires.

The burn is a collaborative effort involving CAL FIRE, the California Department of Parks and Recreation, the Humboldt County Prescribed Burn Association, and private landowners.

Officials advise that residents should expect to see smoke in the area during operations. Increased fire engines and support vehicles will be traveling local roads, and temporary traffic control measures may be in place.

Motorists are urged to use caution while driving through the area to protect both themselves and personnel conducting the prescribed burn.

For information on preparing homes and families for wildfire, visit ReadyForWildfire.org.