Human-started brush fire extinguished in Paso Robles riverbed
PASO ROBLES, Calif. - Paso Robles and SLO County firefighters responded to a brush fire in the Salinas Riverbed south of Niblick bridge Monday afternoon.
Crews said they received reports of the fire around 1:15 p.m.
The first arriving firefighters reported seeing a column of smoke coming from the middle of the Salinas River corridor.
Thick, overgrown vegetation made it difficult for crews to access the fire. Once firefighters were able to safely gain access, they successfully contained the fire to one-third of an acre.
Two fire engines, one ladder truck and two Battalion Chief from Paso Robles responded. Under the city’s automatic aid agreements, two fire engines, one Air Attack, one Dozer, and one Battalion Chief from Cal Fire / SLO County also responded. Additionally, one fire engine from Templeton Fire was ordered to assist with containing the fire.
Paso Robles grazing goats for fire protection
April 29, 2021
Paso Robles is planning to begin grazing 300 to 500 goats next week to create firebreaks and reduce fuel loads along the Salinas River.
The Salinas River corridor stretches more than three miles from north to south, separating the city’s east and west sides and occupying more than 470 acres. The city has already treated 140 acres of vegetation as it readies for the fire season.
The Goat Girls have been selected to graze on approximately 70 acres this year, starting at the north end of the city and progressing south to Larry Moore Park. The project is funded by a grant from the San Luis Obispo County Community Fire Safe Council.
The size and complexity of the project will require 300-500 goats per day.
–The City of Paso Robles will begin grazing the primary firebreaks within the Salinas River on Monday, May 3. The city’s vegetation management plan identifies grazing as an approved method to reduce hazardous fuels. Hazardous fuel reduction minimizes the risk of a devastating wildfire. The city has chosen grazing to maintain firebreaks because of its effectiveness and low environmental impacts. The size and complexity of the project will require 300-500 goats per day.
The Salinas River corridor occupies approximately 478 acres and stretches more than three miles from north to south, separating the city’s east and west sides. Priorities will be to reestablish primary firebreaks within the Salinas River corridor to aid firefighters during suppression efforts and reduce the continuous spread of fire into the community. Over 140 acres of vegetation have been treated to date and planning continues for the t