Controlled Burn Next Week In Northern Marin

NOVATO, CA — Firefighters plan to conduct a 200-acre controlled burn next week in the Big Rock Ridge Area, and officials warn that dark smoke will be visible from several nearby communities.

The burn is designed to reduce fire fuels and improve vegetation at H Ranch, and firefighters are spreading the word a few days early to help avoid unnecessary 911 calls.

"We expect the smoke to be darker and heavier than usual because of the quantity of dry vegetation," said Marin County Fire Chief Jason Weber. "We are asking for the public's support in helping us spread the word. We want to be sure we are doing everything we can to reduce concerns from nearby neighborhoods and hopefully avoid inundating our dispatch lines so they may focus on responding to active emergencies."

The burn is scheduled to take place from Tuesday, Oct. 3, through Thursday, Oct. 5. Smoke is likely to be seen from Novato, Lucas Valley, Marinwood, Terra Linda, Santa Venetia and along portions of Highway 101.

Members of the Marin County Fire Department, Cal Fire and the Novato Protection District are taking part in the burn, which doubles as an experience builder for newer firefighters.

"This prescribed fire and training is a great opportunity for us to reduce fuel load in the area, mitigate impact on our community, while also preparing the next generation of firefighters," said battalion chief Graham Groneman.

Neighbors may notice some traffic impacts due to increased fire vehicles in the area, along with helicopters and other heavy machinery located near the prescribed burn. Officials will keep close tabs on the weather to make sure the fire conditions remain favorable and smoke properly disperses.