See Smoke? Controlled Burn Set On Sonoma Mountain

SONOMA COUNTY, CA — See smoke in southern Sonoma County? The Petaluma Fire Department advised of a controlled burn taking place Thursday on Sonoma Mountain that was expected to produce drift smoke throughout the day.

The prescribed burn was scheduled to be conducted 8 a.m.-5 p.m. June 10 at Sonoma Mountain Preservation's Mitsui Ranch by Cal Fire's Sonoma-Lake-Napa Unit in cooperation with Rancho Adobe Fire Protection District and Sonoma Valley Fire and Rescue Authority.

"Residents may see smoke drifting south of this location while the burning is being conducted," Cal Fire PIO Tyree Zander said in a news release.

"Controlled vegetation management burns are carefully planned and must meet strict criteria for ecological benefit, weather parameters, smoke management, and fire safety guidelines," Zander said. "When all conditions are met, trained wildland firefighters conduct the burn, while monitoring the set criteria, fire behavior, and designated fire control lines."

According to Cal Fire, benefits of low-intensity burning in the natural environment include:

Cleansing Of Wildland Debris

Excessive non-native grass thatch, dead and down branches, brush, and small trees are burned, converting fuels that are hazards in the summer into rich soil nutrients.

Controlling Invasive Species

Invasive species such as Medusahead can be effectively reduced through controlled burning, allowing native grass and forb species to recolonize their natural habitat. Native species are important food and habitat for a wide range of animals.

Ecosystem Health

Low-intensity fire helps eliminate and control diseased plants and trees.

New Growth

Controlled burning encourages the healthy growth of new plants, especially those dependent on fire for renewal or seed dispersion.

Reduced Opportunity For Destructive Fires

Controlled burns can decrease the size and frequency of large, uncontrolled destructive wildfires.