Prescribed Burning

Prescribed Fire in Sonoma Valley

A person in a uniform holding a microphone stands beside a large map on a board outdoors. — Safety briefing before burning

At the Sonoma Valley Fire District, prescribed fire is a critical tool in our efforts to create a safer, more resilient community. When used under the right conditions and with strict oversight, prescribed fire provides substantial benefits for both wildfire risk reduction and ecological health.

What is Prescribed Fire?

Prescribed fire, also known as controlled burning, is the intentional application of fire to a specific area under carefully planned conditions. These burns are conducted by trained professionals and follow detailed prescriptions that account for fuel conditions, weather, topography, smoke dispersion, and ecological goals.

Fire Prevention Benefits

In recent years, wildfire intensity and frequency have increased due to climate change, fuel buildup, and extended drought conditions. Prescribed fire helps mitigate these risks by:

Aerial view of a wildfire with smoke, fire trucks, and firefighters working in a field. — Montini Preserve Prescibed Fire 6/25

Reducing hazardous fuels such as dry grass, brush, and accumulated leaf litter.
Breaking up fuel continuity, which slows the spread of potential wildfires.
Creating defensible space around critical infrastructure and wildland-urban interface areas.
Improving firefighter access and operational safety during wildfire response.

By reducing fuel loads in a controlled manner, prescribed fire helps to prevent catastrophic wildfire events that threaten homes, ecosystems, and public safety.

Ecological and Environmental Benefits

Fire is a natural and essential part of California’s ecosystem. Many native plant and animal species have evolved with fire and actually depend on it for survival. Prescribed fire promotes:

A lush forest scene with tall trees and green undergrowth, featuring yellow wildflowers in the foreground. — Oak Woodland

Native plant regeneration and the reduction of invasive species.
Improved wildlife habitat by opening up overgrown areas.
Soil health and nutrient cycling, returning essential elements to the land.
Enhanced forest and grassland resilience in the face of drought, disease, and pest outbreaks.

When applied responsibly, fire restores natural balance to fire-adapted landscapes and helps maintain long-term ecological health.

Environmental Compliance and Oversight

All prescribed fires conducted by the Sonoma Valley Fire District adhere to strict environmental compliance standards. Each burn undergoes comprehensive review and coordination with:

California Air Resources Board (CARB) and Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) for smoke management.
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) for fire control oversight.
Regional Water Quality Control Boards and other agencies, as applicable.

Every project includes a burn plan that addresses sensitive resources, endangered species, cultural sites, and community impacts. These plans are developed in collaboration with local, state, and federal partners, including landowners and environmental experts.

Our Commitment

The Sonoma Valley Fire District is committed to using prescribed fire responsibly and transparently. We will continue to engage with the public, provide advance notice of burn operations, and ensure that every project meets the highest standards for safety, effectiveness, and environmental stewardship.