A controlled burn is taking place in the Upper Trout Area in the 2500 block of Highway 154 on Tuesday, producing a strong smoke odor.
Approximately 1-2 acres of cut and piled brush are being burned.
The main objective of this burn is to provide firefighters improved opportunities for tactical operations and safety near structures, improvements, and areas with high resource values. Adequate defensible space around communities will reduce the risk of structure loss, as well as improve the safety of residents and first responders.
Additionally, prescribed burns can help prevent the spread of wildfires, and can reduce impacts to watersheds that can result in soil loss and sedimentation. The burn will be conducted when the meteorological conditions are highly favorable to direct smoke away from population centers.
This prescribed burn is planned and coordinated by the Santa Barbara County APCD, San Luis Obispo County APCD, San Joaquin Valley APCD, Ventura County APCD, and the California Air Resources Board in order to minimize impacts on air quality on surrounding communities.
Who needs clean air, right?