Prescribed burns planned for several coastal state parks in SLO County

Several local and state government agencies are planning a series of prescribed burns throughout San Luis Obispo County between Nov. 7, 2017, and May 31, 2018.

The burns are part of a large effort to manage vegetation, reduce hazardous fuel load, improve wildlife habitat and develop other ecological benefits.

“This treatment will enhance the health of the forest by removing diseased materials, restoring essential nutrients to the soil, and reducing the chance of a catastrophic wildfire,” read a statement by the California Department of Parks and Recreation.

The prescribed burns will take place in Hearst San Simeon, Montana de Oro, Morro Bay, Estero Bluffs, and Harmony Headlands State Parks.

People near the fire burn areas may see smoke from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the day of the burns.

Agencies involved include the California Department of Parks and Recreation, CAL FIRE, Morro Bay Fire Department, San Luis Obispo County Air Pollution Control District, and the California Air Resources Board.

All burning will depend on weather and air quality conditions in an effort to minimize the smoke impact on the community.

“In the unlikely event you smell smoke, San Luis Obispo County officials urge you to take precautions and use common sense to reduce any harmful health effects by limiting outdoor activities,” said the statement by the California Department of Parks and Recreation.

For more information regarding prescribed burn dates and locations, visit http://www.slocleanair.org.