News Release

For Release: November 20, 2006
Contact: Michael Chiodini (831) 630-5029, or Jerry Martinez (831) 394-2821
CA-CC-07-12

Bureau of Land Management to Burn Brush Piles at Fort Ord

The Bureau of Land Management plans to burn thirty to fifty brush piles at the former Fort Ord military base in December through March, weather permitting. The piles are part of the hazard fuel reduction program along the trails at Fort Ord. This fuel break system is designed to protect firefighters, help suppress wildland fire and aid public safety by reducing the threat of an uncontrolled fire in the area.

Depending on the weather, the pile burning will take approximately 10 to 15 days to complete and light smoke may be visible. The piles of Manzanita, four to five feet high, are expected to produce very light smoke and burn fast so as not to smolder overnight.

Fire Management Officer Mario Marquez said the burning will take place in the vicinity of Trail 7, Crescent Bluff, Jacks, and Watkins Gate roads. The public is advised to be cautious around the area for safety reasons.

For more information, contact Fire Mitigation Specialist Mike Chiodini at (831) 630-5029 or Fuels Module Leader Jerry Martinez at (831) 394-2821.

-BLM-

 Hollister Field Office, 20 Hamilton Court, Hollister, CA 95023