The Abridged version:
- Controlled burns are occurring throughout Sacramento County, including along the American River Parkway, to reduce wildfire risk.
- Additional burns will take place near Rio Linda, Mather Field and near Florin Road.
- The burns will continue through late June.
If you’ve noticed smoke in the sky above Sacramento County, fire officials have said not to worry — it’s coming from controlled burns.
Crews began the burns in the Woodlake area of American River Parkway on Sunday and will continue through Tuesday. The prescribed burns reduce dry vegetation and lower wildfire risk along the parkway.
Sacramento Assistant Fire Chief Patrick Costamagna said the prescribed burns accomplish more than just prevention.
“Our goal is to reduce the amount of dead grasses and dead or fallen tree branches on the ground,” Costamagna said. “This helps keep fires from getting too large and helps keep fire much more manageable.”
He said the “proven method” keeps fires from spreading out of control.
“This also doubles as a great training exercise for our new firefighters,” he added.
Where are the burns?
More burns will happen through late June. The effort targets a total of four parks in a partnership between Sacramento County Regional Parks, Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District and the Sacramento Fire Department.
In addition to the American River Parkway, fire crews will target:
- Dry Creek Parkway, a 6-mile corridor in northern Sacramento County near Rio Linda, beginning as early as June 11.
- Illa M. Collin Preserve, an area known for vernal pools near Mather Field, beginning as early as June 17.
- Gene Andal Park, a community park on Florin Road in the Vineyard neighborhood, beginning as early as June 22.
The burns will continue as scheduled, unless there is heavy rain or wind, Costamagna said.
Residents and park visitors may see smoke, fire personnel and equipment near the prescribed burns.
“Prescribed fire is an important tool that helps us reduce hazardous vegetation, protect nearby communities and maintain healthier park ecosystems,” said Liz Bellas, Sacramento County Regional Parks Director.
Rob Stewart is a senior correspondent and host with PBS KVIE, and reports for Abridged.