Human-started brush fire extinguished in Paso Robles riverbed

PASO ROBLES, Calif. - Paso Robles and SLO County firefighters responded to a brush fire in the Salinas Riverbed south of Niblick bridge Monday afternoon.

Crews said they received reports of the fire around 1:15 p.m.

The first arriving firefighters reported seeing a column of smoke coming from the middle of the Salinas River corridor.

Thick, overgrown vegetation made it difficult for crews to access the fire. Once firefighters were able to safely gain access, they successfully contained the fire to one-third of an acre.

Two fire engines, one ladder truck and two Battalion Chief from Paso Robles responded. Under the city’s automatic aid agreements, two fire engines, one Air Attack, one Dozer, and one Battalion Chief from Cal Fire / SLO County also responded. Additionally, one fire engine from Templeton Fire was ordered to assist with containing the fire.

The Paso Robles Police Department helped by providing the initial location of the fire and traffic control.

The fire department said their investigation determined the fire was human-caused and was traced back to what appeared to be an area used for cooking. No people were found in the area during the incident.

This fire comes just as Paso Robles Fire announced the arrival of their fire-fuel-eating goats.

The City of Paso Robles has begun grazing the primary firebreaks within the Salinas River. The Goat Girls LLC arrived today with the first herd, setting up at the north in of the city off North River Rd. On Wednesday as the herd moves south, traffic will be delayed periodically. pic.twitter.com/SgC76J7jJP

— Paso Robles Fire and Emergency Services (@PasoRoblesES) May 4, 2021

Goat Girls LLC brought the first herd to graze within the Salinas River on the north end of the city off North River Road.

The department said as the goats move south on Wednesday, traffic may be delayed in some areas.