Arnold, Calif. – Weather permitting, Calaveras Big Trees State Park will begin its annual fall prescribed burning program this week of November 13. The park has been conducting prescribed burns since 1976. The overall goal of prescribed burning is to mimic the natural role that fire plays in the ecosystem. Fire reduces harmful forest insects, clears fallen debris from the forest floor, and reduces the threat of catastrophic wildfire that endangers the forest and adjacent private property at the park’s boundary.

California State Parks natural resources management staff and CAL FIRE will be burning throughout the fall, winter and spring seasons within the North and South Groves, and along the Big Trees Village and Blue Lake Springs park boundaries.

Communities near Calaveras Big Trees State Park may experience smoke from the burning operations. California State Parks is working with the Calaveras County Air Pollution Control District to limit impacts to smoke sensitive areas.

Prescribed burns produce significantly less smoke than a wildfire does. If you see or smell smoke in your surroundings, officials recommend avoiding strenuous outdoor activity and remaining indoors as much as possible. These precautions are especially important for children, the elderly and people with respiratory and heart conditions. Please use extreme caution while driving near prescribed fire operations due to fire personnel and equipment in the area.

Questions or comments about the projects or about the prescribed burn program can be directed to Heather Reith at (209) 536-2887.

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