Novato Burn Work Planned Friday

NOVATO, CA — Marin County fire crews plan to use a dry Friday to continue wildfire prevention work in the Novato area before rain begins filtering into the area on Saturday.

The latest prescribed burn will take place in the Big Rock Ridge area, and smoke may be visible along Highway 101, around Novato and in the northern San Rafael areas of Lucas Valley, Marinwood, Terra Linda and Santa Venetia, officials said Thursday. Burn planners ask that community members avoid calling 911 about smoke in those areas.

The 100-acre burn is the latest piece in the Marin County Fire Department's vegetation management program. Crews began work at H-Ranch, on the north side of Big Rock Ridge in September, but unfavorable weather led crews to postpone operations on the third day.

"Controlled burns help prevent high-intensity wildfires by reducing the volume and continuity of wildland vegetation," the county said Thursday. "Burning improves forest health reducing dead and down vegetation while improving wildlife habitats. Such burns are approved by [the] Bay Area Air Quality Management District and held in conjunction with area public safety agencies."

Drivers may see some traffic impacts on roads nearest the burn area due to the number of fire engines, trucks and heavy equipment.