Controlled burns are set to begin in Mount Tamalpais State Park as early as today. These operations, managed by the Marin County Fire Department and California State Parks, are intended to rejuvenate the local ecosystem and reduce wildfire risks. Residents and visitors in Marin County may notice smoke between 10 AM and 7 PM, but authorities emphasize that this is part of a planned burn and 9-1-1 calls should be reserved for actual emergencies, as per the County of Marin.
These burns depend on favorable weather and air quality conditions, with the schedule flexible throughout the week based on approval from the Bay Area Air Quality Management District. The burns will be delayed if unsafe conditions like too windy, poor air quality, or insufficient staffing.
Smoke may be visible to those near Mount Tam or in neighboring communities. On days when the air is thick with smoke, outdoor activities should be minimized to avoid breathing difficulties. Portions of the Dipsea Trail and Deer Park Fire Road will be closed on burn days. Visitors in the area should be cautious and aware of fire crews working on-site.
These prescribed burns, planned as part of California State Park’s Wildfire and Forest Resiliency Program, are essential for maintaining the health of local ecosystems, reducing combustible materials, and protecting Marin County's landscapes from future wildfires. As highlighted in a press release from the County of Marin, these efforts are the culmination of years of planning.
