MRT Helps Residents Defend Homes from Wildfires

In response to the increasing devastation of homes by wildfires, Mountains Restoration Trust (MRT) is presenting a six-month “Flora & Fire” public education program on how to better defend homes located in high-risk fire areas. According to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CALFIRE), when wildfires burn dangerously close to homes, it’s the preparation homeowners take well in advance that determines if their homes survive.

Through the programs, residents can learn more about the nature of wildfires and how fire-wise landscaping, along with fuel reduction and defensible space techniques, can help protect homes. “Fire resistant plants are also beneficial to homeowners because they are low cost, conserve water, and often increase property values by accentuating homes with their natural setting,” said MRT Director Debbie Sharpton.

Programs are:

March 23 – 25, 2018; 8:00 am - 5:00 pm. Native Plant Sale & Rattlesnake Avoidance for Dogs Clinic. MRT is hosting a weekend of activities related to rural lifestyles. Learn about wildfires and fire-wise landscaping. Native plants will be on sale with expert advice on best choices for specific landscapes and planting tips. Literature and resources will be available to take home. Pet owners may also bring their dogs to MRT’s annual Rattlesnake Avoidance Clinic. The one-on-one training process helps protect dogs from snake bites by ensuring they understand the sight, smell and sound of a rattlesnake. The 3-day event is at the scenic 22-acre historic Golden Heart Ranch, 3190 Triunfo Canyon Rd, Agoura Hills, CA 91301. Free admission. Pre-registration and fee is required for the Rattlesnake Avoidance clinic, sign up at www.mountainstrust.org/events

April 7, 2018; 10:00 am – 4:00 pm. Fire-wise Garden Tour. Visit homes with fire-wise gardens in the local area. Co-hosted with the Theodore Payne Foundation, gardens featured will showcase design and landscaping techniques that minimize hot embers (which ignite homes in a wildfire) including plant choices, challenges and fuel reduction tips. Participants must pre-register; fee is $5. For more information on how to register, visit www.mountainstrust.org.

MRT will also be present at Farmer Markets and local Earth Day events in the upcoming months where the public can obtain information and literature. Flora and Fire materials may also be obtained on MRT's website with online helpful links and resources. MRT is a non profit organization that preserves, protects, and enhances the natural resources of the Santa Monica Mountains through land acquisition, habitat preservation and restoration, research and education. To learn more about the Flora & Fire programs or MRT, visit www.mountainstrust.org.