Prescribed burn on Angel Island to begin as early as Oct. 31

Up to 100 acres of Angel Island State Park will undergo a prescribed burn beginning as early as Oct. 31.

California State Parks is leading the burn operation. Officials said in an Oct. 28 news release that residents should not call 911 to report smoke on the island.

State parks interpreter Ryan Forbes said in an email that while the prescribed burns may start as early as Halloween, the actual start date will depend on weather conditions. He said the burn will likely take place Nov. 2.

Smoke will likely be visible from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on burn days and may be visible for up to three days.

The operation aims to reduce fuel loads — combustible materials — in grasslands and coast-scrub areas on Angel Island.

The state park will remain open during burn days, and Angel Island-Tiburon Ferry service will not be affected, but trails and roads near the burn area will be closed for one to three days during and after the burn. Affected routes include segments of the Ida and Sunset trails and Park Fire Road. Access to Mount Livermore’s peak may also be limited on burn days.

Parks officials urged extreme caution for Angel Island visitors near the fire burns and asked them to follow posted signage and directions from parks staff or fire officials.

The burn is part of the parks agency’s Prescribed Fire Training Exchange, which gives firefighters and other fire personnel the opportunity to hone skills.

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