CAL-FIRE TO CONDUCT CONTROLLED BURNS JUNE 14-15 IN RANCHO CUYAMACA STATE PARK

June 13, 2011 (Cuyamaca)-- Cal-Fire and Cuyamaca Rancho State Park will be conducting prescribed burns on Park lands opposite the Paso Picacho campground on Tuesday and Wednesday, June 14 and 15.

"These burns are part of the Cuyamaca Rancho State Park Reforestation Project that will allow the eventual return of a natural forest ecosystem following the catastrophic Cedar Fire of 2003, which burned 95% of the nearly 25,000 acre park," said Cal-Fire spokesman Mike Mohler.  "The burn will inhibit the growth of aggressive chaparral plants that can limit the growth of the newly planted trees and return valuable nutrients to the soil."

Smoke from the burns is normal and does not need to be reported as fire crews will be there conducting the burn. Smoke will be visible from many locations in the county and will carry into the night.