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Burn Permits Required: New Rules Aim to Reduce Fire Risk

MOUNTAIN COMMUNITIES — All hazard reduction burning in Mariposa and Madera Counties will require a CAL FIRE burn permit, according to an announcement from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) Madera-Mariposa-Merced Unit (MMU). The requirement will take effect at 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 1st. This applies to ALL residential and property owners who plan to burn ...

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How to Access $5 Million for Tribal Wildfire Resilience

SACRAMENTO– The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) is announcing the availability of up to $5 million for Tribal Wildfire Resilience projects. CAL FIRE is soliciting applications for projects that work to support California Native American tribes in managing ancestral lands. This includes implementing and promoting Traditional Ecological Knowledges in wildfire resilience. Also, creating wildfire safety for ...

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CAL FIRE’s Ready, Set, Go for Wildfire Readiness

SACRAMENTO— As critical fire weather continues to increase wildfire risk across much of Southern California, CAL FIRE urges all residents to take proactive steps to protect their families, homes, and communities. The “Ready, Set, Go!” campaign offers clear guidance to ensure everyone is prepared for wildfire emergencies. READY Prepare your home and property. Create defensible space and harden your home. ...

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CAL FIRE’s Warning: Stay Vigilant Against Scams

SACRAMENTO– The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) is alerting the public about fraudulent social media accounts impersonating CAL FIRE and soliciting donations. CAL FIRE does not solicit donations from the public, either in person or online. CAL FIRE actively maintains verified social media accounts recognized by the blue or gray checkmark. CAL FIRE proudly categorizes them ...

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Get to Know The Watch Duty Fire Alert App

MOUNTAIN COMMUNITIES–With fire season right around the corner, knowing when a fire starts in your area can mean the difference between life and death. Nearly every wildfire fatality occurs within the first hour, yet official notifications are often delayed, sparse, or non-existent.  Watch Duty (WD), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, alerts you of nearby wildfires and firefighting efforts in real time when ...

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News, Information, and Resources for the LA Fires

LOS ANGELES COUNTY–Three active wildfires are burning in Los Angeles County, driven by extreme winds and weather conditions. Nearly 40,000 acres have burned, and it’s estimated that more than 12,000 structures have been damaged or destroyed. At least 23 people have lost their lives, and searches are continuing. WEATHER OUTLOOK Critical fire weather conditions will continue through the middle of ...

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CAL FIRE Updates on January Wildfires

SACRAMENTO—More than 7,500 personnel, including firefighters, law enforcement, and other emergency support personnel, are on the ground working with local and federal partners to respond to ongoing historic wildfires in Southern California. Yesterday, firefighters also responded to 37 new wildfires across the state. In the first nine days of the year, 29,053 acres have burned from 92 fires. Incident Management ...

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End of Fire Season Declared for MMU

MOUNTAIN COMMUNITIES—The end of fire season will be declared in the CAL FIRE Madera-Mariposa-Merced Unit (MMU) on Monday, December 16th at 8 a.m. Burning is allowed, but burn permit requirements vary between counties. Burn permit information in Mariposa County: CAL FIRE burn permits are not required in Mariposa County until May 1st. Residents must contact the Mariposa County burn day information ...

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Prescribed Burning Continues in the Sierra National Forest

SIERRA NATIONAL FOREST–The Bass Lake Ranger District (BLRD) Fire Crews are resuming prescribed fire operations near the Sugar Pine Railroad. Crews are planning to ignite approximately 10 acres along the 5S17 Road, adjacent to Highway 41, just north of the Westfall Forest Service Fire Station. Please see the associated map (below) for details. If weather permits, operations will begin on ...

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4 Exciting Events From YGPBC This December

OAKHURST—The Yosemite Gateway Prescribed Burn Cooperative (YGPBC) is excited to announce a series of events to kick off the 2025 prescribed burn season in Mariposa and Madera Counties. These events aim to raise awareness about prescribed burning and provide residents with opportunities to gain skills and learn about prescribed burning resources. Event Schedule: YGPBC Happy Hours – Madera County · ...

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