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Prescribed burns near campus today and tomorrow

To: UCSC Community

From: Public Affairs

November 08, 2023

California State Parks has announced that it will be conducting prescribed burns in Wilder Ranch today, November 8, and tomorrow, Nov. 9. Controlled burns may continue in the park until December 15, however due to the increased precipitation in the region, it is likely that these may be the last controlled burns of the season. 

The prescribed burns of roughly 300 acres are scheduled between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. All burning will depend on weather and air-quality conditions that are favorable for smoke dispersal. If the conditions are not conducive for burning, the burns will be rescheduled. The State Parks will monitor and patrol the area through the following week and weekend. 

Wilder Ranch is a 7,000-acre state park west of UC Santa Cruz that goes from the coastline into the mountains. Some trails may be closed temporarily to ensure public safety, such as Englesmann Loop, Eucalyptus Loop, Old Cabin and Long Meadow Trail.

WHAT TO DO: If you are affected by air-quality issues, stay indoors or leave the immediate area. Close windows until the burn has concluded. You can find information on the Air Quality Index (AQI) and local air-monitoring resources online. In addition, Environmental Health & Safety provides information on wildfire smoke and ways to protect yourself.

Campus affiliates with respiratory illness, other medical conditions that may be exacerbated by smoke exposure, and any others that may be concerned about their smoke particulate exposure may pick up filtering masks (N95s) from the following locations:

McHenry Library: Circulation Desk
Science and Engineering Library: Circulation Desk
Bay Tree Bookstore: Help Desk

REDUCE EXPOSURE: If the AQI is in the unhealthy, very unhealthy, or hazardous ranges, limit your outdoor activities and stay inside with the windows and doors closed, or if possible, leave the area. Drink plenty of fluids to keep your airway moist and easier to clear. If you are feeling ill due to poor air quality, seek advice from your medical provider.

For more information, please visit our wildland fire resource pages at:
Wildfire Awareness
Wildfire Smoke - Employee Protection from Wildfire Smoke
Press Release: Wilder Ranch State Park Prescribed Fire Operations
Prescribed Burn in Progress at Wilder Ranch