Burn Planned Near Lake Elsinore To Eliminate Overgrowth

LAKE ELSINORE, CA — A controlled burn is planned Thursday to clear excess vegetation in the El Cariso community just west of Lake Elsinore.

According to the Riverside County Fire Department, crews intend to conduct slash pile burning between 6 a.m. and noon in the vicinity of the Ortega (74) Highway.

"Smoke will be visible from nearby communities, but it will disperse quickly and is not expected to be a health hazard," according to a fire department statement.

Officials said the aim of the prescribed burn is to eliminate non- native grasses, as well as overgrowth of brush that could supply fuel for wildfires after the winter rainy season ends.

Crews will monitor weather conditions and suspend operations if winds pick up.

In addition to county fire personnel, firefighters from other agencies will be on hand, using the hazard mitigation operation as an opportunity to improve skills.

Anyone with questions or concerns was asked to contact the county fire public information bureau at (951) 940-6985.

— By City News Service / Patch file photo by Renee Schiavone