TRUCKEE, Calif. (Feb. 23, 2026) - Tahoe National Forest has lifted the Castle Peak Avalanche Closure. The area was closed for public safety and to support search and rescue operations following an avalanche that occurred on Feb. 17. All victims have now been recovered. Individuals that choose to enter the area are encouraged to proceed with extreme caution.  
“We extend our deepest sympathies to the individuals and families impacted by this tragic backcountry incident, and we grieve with our community,” said Tahoe National Forest Supervisor Chris Feutrier. “As we collectively process this immense loss, our commitment to the safety and well-being of everyone who visits the forest is stronger than ever, compelling us to reiterate vital safety information.” 
Before heading out to recreate on the Tahoe National Forest, members of the public are advised to remain vigilant for potentially dangerous situations.  

• Know before you go: Monitor weather conditions before you set out for the day. 
• Prioritize Safety: Your safety and the safety of others around you is most important. 
• Be avalanche aware: Learn about avalanche conditions. Take a certified avalanche course. Find courses at  Avalanche.org. 
• Be prepared: Bring essential safety gear and know how to use it. Everyone in your party should have an avalanche transceiver, avalanche probes, shovel, backpack and a partner.  

Sierra Avalanche Center provides daily avalanche forecasts for the greater Tahoe region. Review local avalanche conditions, forecasts, observations and safety tips at SierraAvalancheCenter.Org. 

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PG&E crews were out in force through the weekend and today as additional PG&E workers from outside the region arrived to assist local crews in power restoration in storm-damaged Sierra Nevada Mountains.
 
Since the storm began, PG&E crews have restored power to more than 120,000 customers in PG&E’s Sierra Division, which includes El Dorado, Placer, Nevada and Sierra counties.
 
As of 10:20 a.m., about 6,300 customers in the Sierra Division are without power.
 
A series of storms with deep snow and high winds and coupled with saturated soils caused many trees to topple into power lines.  PG&E crews used snowcats, side-by-side vehicles, helicopters and even snowshoes to reach snowed-in areas.
 
Several hundred workers and contractors are in the field today generally working 16-hour days to restore power as quickly and safely as possible.
 
PG&E has been working closely with county emergency agencies and in two separate cases provided snowcats with operators to assist first responders in medical emergencies in El Dorado County.
 
As of 10:20 a.m. Monday, here are the current power outage counts by county:
- El Dorado: 4,255
- Nevada: 1,113
- Placer: 520
- Sierra: 279
- Amador: 3,064
- Calaveras: 5.064
- Tuolumne: 1,587

Over five years, California has recorded 19,241 crashes. The most dangerous roads are:
Rank         California Roads       Total Crashes

1                 I-5                               536

2                  US-101                       409

3                  SR-99                          368

4                    I-15                            290

5                    I-10                             252

6                    I-80                              211

7                    SR-1                            154

8                    SR-91                          121

9                     SR-4                            110

10                   I-215                              98

Where Fatal Crashes Happen in California:

• State highways: 49%
• U.S. highways: 8%
• Interstates: 29%
• Local streets: 15%

We also have city-level data available for localized coverage on request. You can explore the full study on the most dangerous places to drive and see how your state ranks here: https://www.iselect.com.au/car-insurance/insights/the-most-dangerous-places-to-drive/

Residents and business owners who can't afford to buy ice melt for clearing ice in front of their homes, driveways, or commercial entrances should know that help is available from local authorities. Throughout the winter, many businesses on Commercial Street, especially those with north-facing entrances, have had significant ice buildup on sidewalks and streets in front of their doors. While the freezing conditions can be challenging, it’s important for safety that sidewalks and entrances are kept clear. A slip on ice can easily send someone to the hospital, which is an unnecessary risk for patrons and employees alike. A simple, low-cost alternative to ice melt is sand, which provides traction and reduces the chances of slips and falls. Plumas County and the City of Portola are offering free supplies of sand and sandbags at designated locations to help residents and businesses prepare for winter hazards and protect property. Sand and sandbags are available at no cost while supplies last. Supplies are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, and residents are encouraged to take only what they need.
Available Locations Include:

• City of Portola – 120 Main Street, Portola (for city and county residents)
  
• Graeagle Fire Department – 7620 CA-89, Graeagle
  
• Peninsula Fire Department – 801 Golf Club Road, Lake Almanor
  
• Hamilton Branch Fire Department – 3791 Big Springs Road, Hamilton Branch
  
• Chester Fire/CPUD – 251 Chester Airport Road, Chester
  
• Quincy Fire Station #1 – 501 Lawrence Street, Quincy (sand already bagged)
  
• Indian Valley Fire Department – contact Indian Valley CSD for supplies 
  

These materials are intended to help protect homes, businesses, and property from potential water intrusion and winter hazards. Officials also encourage residents and business owners to stay informed about changing weather conditions and take proactive safety steps as storms approach. While the City of Portola is offering free sand and sandbags for traction and storm preparation, it’s important to note that the City is not responsible for clearing ice from sidewalks in front of businesses. That responsibility falls to each property owner or business operator. Therefore, businesses on Commercial Street have no excuse for neglecting snow and ice removal, especially if financial cost is the barrier. The sand and sandbags are readily available, and using them to improve traction and safety is a simple step that helps protect employees, customers, and neighbors. At the Portola Public Works Department near the Railroad Museum (120 Main Street), there is a large pile of sand and often burlap bags available. In the past, there were community shovels on site, but these sometimes disappear, so bringing your own shovel is recommended. There’s no reason for people to slip and slide in front of homes or businesses when resources exist to make walking surfaces safer. Take advantage of the free sand and sandbags, stock up, and use them where needed. Together, we can make winter safer for everyone.

Lady Grizzlies played Biggs February 20th at home and came within 9 points in the first half but couldn't keep up in the second, with Biggs winning 57-49.

To Our Community,
The recent avalanche that took the lives of nine backcountry skiers has profoundly impacted the Truckee-Tahoe region and beyond. For many, these mountains symbolize connection and belonging, and this loss is deeply felt across our community.
We extend our condolences to the families and loved ones who are grieving. Our thoughts are also with those who were injured and everyone working to process this tragedy. Trauma affects each person differently, and both physical and emotional recovery take time.
We express our gratitude to the first responders and Search and Rescue teams, many of whom are volunteers, as well as the partner agencies that acted swiftly. Their efforts reflect the strength and dedication of this community.
In the days ahead, the impact of this tragedy may continue to unfold. Community members directly impacted by the recent avalanche at Castle Peak who need mental health or grief support can call Tahoe Forest Behavioral Health at (530) 582-3505. The line is staffed Monday- Friday, 8am-5pm. For immediate crisis support, please contact:
·       Placer County 24/7 Crisis Line: (916) 787-8860
·       Nevada County 24/7 Crisis Line: (530) 265-5811
·       Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)
·       Or visit the nearest emergency department
This loss is felt widely. Please check in on one another, reach out, and seek support if you need it. We will share more resources in the coming days as they become available.
We share in the grief of our community and remain here to care for those who need us.
With sympathy,
Anna M. Roth, RN, MS, MPH
President & CEO
 
 
 
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About Tahoe Forest Health System
Tahoe Forest Health System, which includes Tahoe Forest Hospital in Truckee, CA, and Incline Village Community Hospital in Incline Village, NV, offers 24-hour emergency care, urgent care, primary and specialty health care clinics including Tahoe Forest Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Commission on Cancer (COC) accredited cancer center, the Gene Upshaw Memorial Tahoe Forest Cancer Center, and the Joseph Family Center for Women and Newborn Care. With a strong focus on high quality patient care, community collaboration, clinical excellence and innovation, Tahoe Forest Health System is a UC Davis Rural Center of Excellence. For a complete list of physician specialties and services, visit www.tfhd.com.

Customers Warned to Stay Away from Downed Power Lines

​PG&E crews and contractors had to temporarily pause working in the field and return to yards late this morning after whiteout conditions on roadways and falling trees made it unsafe in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
 
Work will resume to assess and repair storm damage to poles and power lines after severe weather has passed. Crews have returned to the field in parts of Nevada County where weather has allowed.
 
Poor visibility on roads and snow-laden trees toppling over meant about 175 workers in El Dorado, Placer, Nevada and Sierra counties had to return to work yards.
 
PG&E also urges customers to always treat downed power lines as live and to stay away.  Report downed power lines and by calling 9-1-1 or 800-PGE-5000.
 
While crews have made strong pogress in power restoration, new power outages occurred while weather worsened.
 
When crews resume restoration they will be utilizing helicopters and snowcats, navigating challenging terrain, and in some cases, even donning snowshoeing to reach affected areas. Additionally, PG&E has brought in extra crews from outside the region, along with contractors, to support the local teams in restoring power.
 
Despite these efforts, some areas remain inaccessible due to road closures. As of x p.m. Thursday, here are the current power outage counts by county:
- El Dorado: 8,062
- Nevada: 5,315
- Placer: 4,105
- Sierra: 625
- Amador: 5,074
- Calaveras: 9,819
- Tuolumne: 4,931
 
It is crucial for customers to stay prepared in case of power outages. Customers should ensure their phones and tablets are charged and have battery-operated lanterns and flashlights readily available. To report a power outage and received updates, call 800-PGE-5002 or visit www.pge.com/outages

TRUCKEE, Calif. (Feb. 19, 2026)-- In response to a backcountry avalanche that occurred Feb. 17, 2026 resulting in multiple skier fatalities, Tahoe National Forest has issued the closure of all National Forest lands and trails in the Castle Peak area near Truckee, Calif. The closure is required for public and first responder safety and to provide for the recovery of the victims. Due to the current instability of the snowpack and need to prioritize first responder access to the area, members of the public are prohibited from entering the closure area during search and rescue operations. 
In order to continue recovery operations, emergency personnel will need to use snow machines, aircraft, various other heavy equipment and possibly explosives to mitigate further environmental hazards to the safety of first responders conducting recovery efforts.  
“It is our top priority to ensure the safety of first responders during this recovery mission and aid in the return of each victim to their families,” said Tahoe National Forest Supervisor Chris Feutrier. “Our deepest condolences to the families that have lost their loved ones from this tragic incident. Our sincere appreciation to all first responders, law enforcement and partners that are supporting this recovery.” 
The Castle Peak Avalanche Closure area applies to National Forest lands between Castle Peak to the South Fork of Prosser Creek. The closure prohibits the following: 

• Going into or being upon any National Forest System Lands in the area which is closed for the protection of public health and safety as shown on the closure order map. 
• Being on a trail within the closure area. 

This closure order is effective Feb. 20 through March 15, 2026. The closure may be rescinded earlier if public safety measures are mitigated. The full closure order including a detailed closure area description and map can be found at https://www.fs.usda.gov/r05/tahoe/alerts/castle-peak-avalanche-closure. 
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On March 5, 2026, as part of National Consumer Protection Week, the Social Security Administration (SSA) and its Office of the Inspector General (OIG) lead National Slam the Scam Day.
Take part by using tools from SSA and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to recognize imposters – including Social Security-related scams – and stop scammers from stealing your money and personal information.
Help Us Slam the Scam!

1. Learn about the latest scams and how to recognize the signs. For example:
   • An unexpected problem or offer of a prize or government benefit increase.
   • Pressure to act immediately.
   • Request for unusual payments like cryptocurrency, gift cards, gold bars, cash, or wire transfers, even with the promise of keeping your money safe.
2. Spread the word. Visit ssa.gov/scam for more information that could help you and others avoid scams.
3. Report scams. Report Social Security-related scams and fraud to SSA OIG (oig.ssa.gov/report). Report other scams to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

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Recent heavy and low-elevation snow has caused numerous power outages in the Sierra Nevada mountains. PG&E has been vigorously patrolling the circuits and accessing hard-to-reach spots where equipment has been damaged.
 
Utilizing helicopters and snowcats, crews are navigating challenging terrain, and in some cases, even donning snowshoeing to reach affected areas. Additionally, PG&E has brought in extra crews from outside the region, along with contractors, to support the local teams in restoring power.
 
Despite these efforts, some areas remain inaccessible due to road closures. As of 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, here are the current power outage counts by county:
- El Dorado: 7,834
- Nevada: 2,870
- Placer: 1,410
- Sierra: 716
- Amador: 4,484
- Calaveras: 10,004
- Tuolumne: 8,804
 
Within the counties of El Dorado, Nevada, Placer, and Sierra, PG&E has approximately 175 boots on the ground working extended days to restore power. They are equipped with 24 snowcats and one helicopter.
 
On Tuesday, PG&E successfully restored power to more than 8,000 customers in this region. However, new outages continue to emerge even as some are resolved. It is crucial for customers to stay prepared in case of power outages. Customers should ensure their phones and tablets are charged and have battery-operated lanterns and flashlights readily available. To report a power outage and received updates, call 800-PGE-5002 or visit www.pge.com/outages

 
Eastern Plumas Health Care is pleased to welcome Stephanie Gonzales, Associate Clinical Social Worker (ACSW) as the new Therapist at the Senior Life Solutions program. 
 
Eastern Plumas Health Care ‘s Senior Life Solutions program is an intensive outpatient group therapy program designed to meet the unique needs of individuals typically 65 and older experiencing depression or anxiety related to life changes that are often associated with aging. As Therapist, Stephanie Gonzales, will be responsible for providing therapeutic services for patients utilizing group, individual, and family therapy sessions. She will focus on quality patient care and provision of services ordered by a physician.
 
Stephanie Gonzales is a registered Associate Clinical Social Worker with the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. She earned her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Southern California. Her most recent employment was as a therapist at Reno Behavioral Hospital, where she provided individual and group therapy services to patients with acute mental health needs. Her experience includes clinical assessment, treatment planning, crisis intervention, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
 
Ms. Gonzales said, “I’m so excited to work with SLS because of the commitment to fostering community and meaningful connection. I look forward to creating a safe and supportive space for individuals to feel seen, heard, and empowered. “
 
Anyone can refer a patient to the program, including a physician, family member, the patient, or another healthcare professional.   
 
For more information about Eastern Plumas Health Care ‘s Senior Life Solutions program, call (530) 832-6780.

 
 
ABOUT SENIOR LIFE SOLUTIONS
Founded in 2003, Senior Life Solutions is managed by Psychiatric Medical Care (PMC), a leading behavioral healthcare management company. PMC manages inpatient behavioral health units, intensive outpatient programs, and telehealth services in more than 35 states.
For more information, visit www.psychmc.com.
 
 
 

​PLUMAS, LASSEN, SIERRA COUNTIES – Feather River College, in partnership with Alliance for Workforce Development, is excited to host the third annual Feather River College Student and Community Job Fair. This in-person job fair will take place on March 5th, 2026, from 12:00pm to 3:00pm at the Feather River College gym (570 Golden Eagle Avenue, Quincy, CA 95971).
This free event is open to all job seekers, including college students and community members, offering a unique opportunity to connect with a variety of employers in one convenient location. Attendees can explore part-time, full-time, and seasonal job openings, interact with hiring managers, and build valuable employment connections.
Employers from industries such as forestry, education, tourism, and recreation will be present, including organizations like the U.S. Forest Service and Sierra Pacific Industries. Last year, over 40 employers participated, and this year’s list continues to grow.
Feather River College and AFWD encourage attendees to dress professionally and bring multiple copies of their resume.
For more information about the job fair, please visit www.frc.edu/jobfair or contact Gabe Miller at [email protected].

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Kevin Kiley (R-CA) is introducing the Keep Jobs in California Act of 2026 in response to California’s proposed wealth tax, which would apply retroactively to certain former residents of the state.
The legislation prohibits any state from imposing a retroactive tax on the assets of individuals who no longer reside in the state.
“California’s proposed wealth tax is an unprecedented attempt to chase down people who have already left as a result of the state’s poor policies,” said Rep. Kiley. “As a result, many of our state's leading job creators are leaving preemptively. No state should be allowed to reach back in time and impose a new tax on someone who no longer lives there. That is fundamentally unfair.”
The proposed "2026 Billionaire Tax Act," which proponents are aiming to place on the ballot in November, would confiscate five percent of the assets of individuals with a net worth of $1 billion or more who resided in the state as of January 1, 2026.
Several prominent business leaders have announced they are leaving California in response to the wealth tax proposal, including Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, Google co-founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin, Oracle CEO Larry Ellison, and PayPal co-founder Peter Thiel.
The bill will officially be introduced on Friday.
Click here to read the bill text.
Click here to watch Rep. Kiley’s floor remarks on the proposed wealth tax.
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(Susanville, Calif., February 17, 2026) — The Lassen National Forest announced today it will staff the Colby Mountain Lookout for the 2026 fire season as part of its comprehensive fire detection and response strategy.

Public safety and effective fire detection remain ongoing priorities for the forest. The Lassen National Forest continuously works to enhance its capabilities, including through the installation and use of advanced technologies such as two AlertCA cameras on the Colby Mountain Lookout. These technologies contribute significantly to early fire detection and monitoring efforts.

Lassen National Forest leadership will work with local communities this year to discuss fire detection and response capabilities and listen to input on how to best serve the public, including ideas for the long-term management of the Colby Mountain Lookout.

For safety tips, current conditions and more information about the Lassen National Forest, visit its website at https://www.fs.usda.gov/r05/lassen/newsroom.

About the Forest Service: The Forest Service has, for more than 100 years, brought people and communities together to answer the call of conservation. Grounded in world-class science and technology — and rooted in communities — the Forest Service connects people to nature and to each other. The Forest Service cares for shared natural resources in ways that promote lasting economic, ecological, and social vitality. The agency manages 193 million acres of public land, provides assistance to state and private landowners, and maintains the largest wildland fire and forestry research organizations in the world. The Forest Service also has either a direct or indirect role in stewardship of about 900 million forested acres within the U.S., of which over 130 million acres are urban forests where most Americans live.

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​A CHANGING OF THE GUARD is underway at Downieville Elementary and High School as Mr. Berardi retires and Mrs. Faith Edwards steps into the role of principal on March 1st. Mrs. Edwards has been a part of the education community for the past 25 years, serving as a teacher and working closely with students, families, and staff. Her deep love for education, passion for shaping young minds, and strong attention to detail have been evident throughout her time at the school site.
As principal, Mrs. Edwards hopes to build upon the school’s strong foundation while supporting academic growth, student well-being, and positive school culture. She is excited to tackle new challenges, collaborate with staff, and strengthen partnerships with families and the community. Mrs. Edwards looks forward to leading Downieville Elementary and High School into its next chapter with enthusiasm and a commitment to excellence. - Story by Hayley Price

A Declaration of Public Safety was issued by Sierra County Sheriff Mike Fisher on February 5 following a confirmed mountain lion attack that resulted in the death of a family dog near a residence in Sierra Brooks.
The incident occurred approximately 30 yards from the family’s home. Initial reports suggested the animal involved may have been a wolf, as a lone collared wolf from the Harvey Pack had been documented in the area. However, an investigation conducted by Sheriff’s deputies and federal trappers determined the responsible predator was a mountain lion.
During the investigation, authorities discovered an animal cache site roughly 250 yards from the residence. The dog was found deceased at the site and had been buried, a behavior consistent with mountain lion predation. Based on this evidence, officials concluded the lion was actively residing and feeding in the immediate area rather than merely passing through.
The family sought a permit to kill the lion, but the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) issued only a hazing permit. Sheriff Fisher said the circumstances warranted stronger action due to the lion’s continued presence near homes, children, livestock, and a popular hiking area. As a result, he declared a public safety emergency and forwarded the declaration to USDA Wildlife Services, which agreed with the assessment.
A trap was set behind the residence. Following a 9-1-1 call reporting a mountain lion sighting in the Sierra Brooks neighborhood, one lion was safely euthanized. A second lion was euthanized the next night after returning to the residence near the trap site. Both animals were transferred to USDA authorities.
Sheriff Fisher noted that he personally observed a mountain lion in Loyalton approximately two weeks earlier and believes it is possible it was one of the lions euthanized.
Mountain lions are classified as a specially protected mammal in California. Fisher emphasized that while the species is common in Sierra County, law enforcement only intervenes when animals display abnormal or dangerous behavior. Since taking office, Fisher has issued only two public safety declarations involving mountain lions and two involving bears. All four cases  met a clearly defined threshold for intervention and were agreed upon and assisted by USDA Wildlife Services.
In addition to the Sierra Brooks incident, the Sheriff’s Office has received reports of other predator-related encounters. A livestock guardian dog was found west of Loyalton with injuries consistent with a predator attack and was transported to a veterinary clinic in Reno. The owner requested DNA swabs be collected to help determine whether the injuries were caused by a wolf, mountain lion, or coyote. However, the veterinarian declined to obtain samples after learning a wolf may have been involved.
On February 6, the Sheriff’s Office and USDA Wildlife Services also investigated the death of a calf at the Goicoechea Ranch east of Loyalton. Only a single calf leg was located, and despite a search, the remainder of the carcass was not found. Given confirmed mountain lion activity in the area, officials believe the calf was likely dragged off by a lion. CDFW has been formally requested to analyze collected DNA to identify the predator responsible.

​ Sierra County Weighs Green Waste Burning Policies

Green waste disposal and burn policies at Sierra County’s solid waste transfer sites remained a key topic at the Board of Supervisors meeting held February 3 in Downieville. Interim Public Works Director Brandon Pangman updated the board on recent discussions with the Forest Service and Sierra City Volunteer Fire Department following a site visit to the Sierra City transfer station on January 22.
Officials agreed that existing green waste piles can be safely burned, though the process may take time due to large-diameter logs that are no longer accepted. Pangman noted that burning at the Sattley and Sierra City sites carries risks, costs, and both eastside and westside superintendents want to discontinue burning there. For Sierra City, they will not accept green waste until current piles are reduced.
New standard operating procedures are being developed to ensure safe burning practices. Pangman emphasized that no fire had escaped previously, explaining that a rekindle occurred within an ash pile weeks later. Limited staffing remains a challenge for round-the-clock monitoring, prompting proposals for additional night-vision cameras, Starlink internet serv-ice, and onsite water tanks. Sheriff Mike Fisher offered dispatch staff to assist with monitoring during burns.
A recent Solid Waste Task Force meeting focused solely on green waste options, including limiting pile sizes, curtain burners, chipping, and hauling. The group opposed increased fees, citing concerns that higher costs would discourage proper disposal and lead to illegal dumping. Installing water tanks and Starlink at all sites would cost an estimated $40,000. Pangman suggested spending $8,000 to start with the top priority of Sierra City.
He said they are running deficits with green waste disposal and would like long term solutions, suggesting grants to create a regional facility to be shared with Plumas County. 
Board Chair Paul Roen stated there was infrastructure money in the solid waste budget to use for a tank at Sierra City and the Fire Safe Council was committed to working with the Solid Waste Task Force. Supervisor Lee Adams felt they needed to have the Forest Service and fire departments agree with when they burn. Supervisor Sharon Dryden said this is not a Sierra County issue, adding every county is dealing with green waste. She didn’t want to discourage home hardening, and suggested working in conjunction with Plumas County.  By consensus, the Board approved purchasing a water tank for the Sierra City site and requested staff return with a proposal for addressing the remaining transfer stations.

A RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION was presented to Edward Cusato, Sierra County Road Maintenance Supervisor, in recognition of his retirement during the Board of Supervisors’ meeting on February 3rd in Downieville.
Cusato commenced employment with the Sierra County Road Maintenance Department February 9, 2001 and served for nearly twenty-five years. 

Sacramento, CA — Today, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) launched a new 2026 forest health media and education campaign. This campaign is aimed at helping Californians better understand the role healthy forests play in mitigating the growing wildfire threat and highlights the actions we can take together to reduce risk and protect lives, communities, and natural resources.


Healthy forests provide clean air and water and protect wildlife habitats. They also act as natural fire barriers that reduce risk to our communities. A key focus of the campaign is highlighting proactive forest management, including prescribed fire. Carefully planned burns reduce hazardous fuels, lower wildfire intensity, and promote healthier, more resilient forests.


CAL FIRE invites local agencies, grantees, community-based organizations and others to participate in this campaign. The Forest Health and Fuels Reduction Campaign toolkit contains graphics and copy for use on social media, banners, and billboards and is easily customizable.


“CAL FIRE is committed to reducing wildfire risk by addressing hazardous vegetation and improving forest health,” said CAL FIRE Director/Fire Chief Joe Tyler. “As the use of prescribed fire continues to increase across the state, it’s important Californian’s understand the benefits of prescribed fire and its role in keeping forests healthy as we work to build more resilient landscapes and safer communities across California.”


California’s forests are vital to biodiversity, climate regulation, clean water, and community well-being, yet they face growing threats from larger, more frequent wildfires. Increasing the pace and scale of fuels reduction and prescribed fire projects across the state is part of California's Action Plan for creating healthier and more resilient forests. Californians will continue to see an increase in prescribed fire activity across the state. 
The campaign also emphasizes the important role individuals play at home and in their communities to prepare for wildfire. Californians can reduce their wildfire risk through home hardening and by creating and maintaining defensible space. Be prepared when emergencies occur by having a go-bag packed and knowing evacuation routes. Developing evacuation plans and signing up for local emergency alters are also critical steps in being prepared.


To learn more and to see what you can do to help visit PreventWildfireCA.org.


To see prescribed fires near you, see the CAL FIRE Incident Map.


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