February 25, 2020 - The recent increases in catastrophic wildfires throughout the state have increased interest of private landowners, public land managers, native communities and private citizens in learning more about prescribed fire to as a tool for fuels reduction or ecological and cultural resources restoration. However, because prescribed fire use has declined over the past several decades, the communities have limited capacity, knowledge, and experience in the use of prescribed fie. University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Mariposa is hosting a workshop to discuss fire history in California, how our ecosystems are fire adapted and the ecological benefits of fire as well as the programs and practical consideration for bringing fire back on our landscapes. 

Used properly, prescribed fire can be used to improve the health and resiliency of both forest and rangeland ecosystems, control weeds, increase species diversity, promote native species and reduce the smoke impact of wildfire. Whether you live in a mixed conifer forest, oak woodland, chaparral or grassland habitat, in rural or wildland-urban interface, returning prescribed fire to California is important for our safety and improve the health of our ecosystems. Join us for a Prescribed Fire on Private Lands workshop on Thursday, March 19 from 8:00 P.M. - 4:30 P.M. 

The workshop will be held at McCay Hall in Catheys Valley, CA.  Topics covered will be fire ecology, vegetation management, establishing a prescribed burn association, and setting up a prescribed burn on private lands (options, planning, etc.). Then join a field day at a cultural burn in Mariposa County (choice of March 20, 21, or 22). 

The cost is $35 for the workshop and $20 for the field day.  Registration is required for both days and includes lunch, refreshments and informational packets. 

Please register at http://cemariposa.ucanr.edu or (209) 966-2417.

Source: UCCE