What we do
We create a yearly plan for reducing the risk of wildfires. This plan includes vegetation management. We focus on using ecologically sound techniques to reduce the amount of natural fuel in the landscape. This could include:
- Thinning out vegetation;
- Removing dead vegetation;
- Using prescribed burns.
A vegetation management plan also includes:
- Public notification plans;
- Smoke management plans;
- Environmental impact reviews.
How we manage fuels
Fuel management means reducing the amount of natural fuel (like plants or trees) that can feed a wildfire. To manage fuels in Marin, we can:
- Make sure there are defensible spaces around buildings and in residential neighborhoods.
- Use fuel-breaks. A fuel-break is a strip of land that runs along a road or ridge. In this area, vegetation is controlled. This can help slow the spread of wildfires.
- Use fire reduction zones. These are broad areas of land where we manage vegetation.
In this division
- Learn about prescribed fires A prescribed fire is a safe and cost-effective tool that helps lower the risk of damaging wildfires.
- Planning for pre-fire management Since 1998, we have been planning for pre-fire management. Our goal is to reduce wildfire-related losses for residents and government.
- Apply for a Pile Burn Permit Safe burning of dead and dry vegetation by landowners is a crucial tool in reducing fire hazards. You must have a permit for an open burn.
- Creating safer evacuation routes We use vegetation management practices to make sure evacuation routes are safe.
Related
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Operations
Our job is to manage emergency operations and respond to fires.
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Fire Prevention and Investigation
Our job is to minimize and prevent damage from fires.
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Emergency Medical Services
We provide emergency medical services for Marin residents.
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Office of Emergency Management
Our mission is to help Marin prepare for, mitigate, respond to, and recover from disasters.