Prescribed Burn Planned at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Cal Fire and California State Parks are teaming up to conduct a controlled burn at the Sandhills area of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park as early as next week.
Crews plan to begin ignitions between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. on May 18, though the operation could shift by several days depending on weather and air quality conditions. The target area covers roughly 8 acres within a rare Bonny Doon manzanita sandhills habitat — an ecosystem that depends on periodic fire to stay healthy and support the regeneration of sensitive plant species.
Once the burn window opens, it may remain active for up to two weeks. During that time, visitors to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park should expect to see or smell smoke, and the Pine Trail will be closed while operations are underway. All burns will proceed only when conditions are suitable for safe smoke dispersal and consistent with ecological goals; if conditions fall short, burns will be rescheduled.
The operation is permitted and coordinated with the Monterey Bay Air Resources District to limit smoke impacts on nearby communities.
This burn is part of the Santa Cruz District’s broader Prescribed Fire program, which uses intentional, low-intensity fire — sometimes called “good fire” — for vegetation management, hazardous fuel reduction, wildlife habitat improvement, and long-term ecological health. Prescribed fire also reduces the risk of larger, more destructive wildfires.
Health note: Anyone who notices smoke in the area should avoid strenuous outdoor activity and stay indoors as much as possible. This is especially important for children, older adults, and people with heart or respiratory conditions.
For updates or questions, contact the Santa Cruz District’s prescribed burns hotline at 831-216-6459 or email santacruz.prescribedburns@parks.ca.gov.
Photo courtesy of Santa Cruz Mountains State Parks
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