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SUSPENSION OF BURNING

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Mariposa – The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) Madera-Mariposa-Merced Unit will suspend hazard reduction open burning permits for Mariposa County as of Thursday May 1, 2008.

Conditions are becoming hazardous in Mariposa County and a combination of low fuel moistures and winds has lead to an increase of escaped debris burns in Mariposa County. The most recent was a debris burn escape that consumed 20 acres in the Hunters Valley area.
These escaped debris burns threaten lives, property and forest resources.

This declaration rescinds all previously approved Burn Permits. Campfires will be allowed in
designated campgrounds with permission of the jurisdictional authority only Spring is the time of year to make your home Fire Safe, by clearing dead and dying vegetation, flammable leaves, brush, and dry grass within 100 feet of your home and other structures. Proper clearance out to 100 feet dramatically increases the chance of your house surviving a wildfire. This defensible space also provides for firefighter safety when protecting homes during a firestorm.

CAL FIRE Unit Chief Mikel Martin wants homeowners to know that CAL FIRE realizes
for many homeowners providing 100 feet of defensible space will mean a tremendous
amount of work but it will be worth it. When we inspect your property if you are not in compliance, we will request that you continue to work toward full compliance before our
next inspection.

“The important thing is to break up vertical and horizontal continuity of the fuel,”
said Chief Martin. “Try to get 10 to 15 feet of spacing, both vertically and horizontally
between shrubs, large plants, and trees.” “If you have 4 foot high brush underneath
larger trees with limbs, you will want to limb up the tree at least 14 feet,” advises Chief
Martin. “Breaks like this in the vegetation help to slow down an advancing fire and gives
the firefighters a fighting chance.” Please help us to help you.

 

  




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