06/02/2026
The City of Davis is conducting a prescribed burn at South Fork Preserve 6/4-6/5, during the hours of 6 a.m. – 5 p.m. Approximately 20 acres will be burned to help reduce unwanted thatch build-up and provide rich nutrients for the soil to help promote native grasses. In combination with targeted grazing and other techniques the City’s Open Space Program is doing, prescribed fire will help bring a healthier native balance to the oak savannah at South Fork. A burn was conducted in the same area in 2024. There will be no significant or long-term negative impacts to wildlife. City staff has conducted multiple surveys for dens in the burn area and will conduct another before the burn occurs.
The City is working with Yolo-Solano Air Quality Management District, the Davis Fire Department and the Yolo County Resource Conservation District, and there is a Burn Plan, Incident Action Plan and Smoke Management Plan in place. In addition, multiple crews and staff will be on site during the prescribed burn. City staff will also be checking for winds and weather conditions leading up to the burn.
South Fork Preserve and the parking lot will be closed during the burn (signs will be placed) and smoke may be visible at times. Thank you for your understanding as our Open Space Program helps reduce hazardous fuel, rejuvenates the soil and improves the habitat at South Fork Preserve. If you have questions, please contact Tracie Reynolds at: [email protected].
