Cultural wetland burn planned near South Lakeport on November 5th

South Lakeport residents may see smoke Thursday, November 5th, as a planned cultural tule wetland burn takes place at the Kuhla’Napo Wetland Preserve.

Lake County Land Trust and preserve co managers Big Valley Rancheria will host the Tribal EcoRestoration Alliance, known as TERA, for the project. According to the announcement, the burn is fully planned and permitted.

Smoke may be visible around Lakeport, South Lakeport, Finley and the Upper Arm of Clear Lake. Ignitions are expected to begin midmorning, with firing operations concluding by late afternoon. If weather or vegetation conditions are unsuitable, the burn will be rescheduled.

What nearby residents should know

Organizers ask residents not to call 911 simply to report smoke from this planned burn.

People traveling near the preserve may see smoke, and some residual smoke could remain overnight and into the following days. The announcement advises nearby residents to close windows and doors and limit outdoor activities when smoke is present.

Crews will continue patrolling the burn area until all heat has been extinguished.

Cultural restoration and fire training

The project is part of Lake Cal-TREX, an EcoCultural Fire Training Exchange led by TERA in partnership with Tribes, agencies and community organizations. The effort focuses on healing lands and revitalizing culture.

Funding comes through the California Natural Resources Agency on the recommendation of the Blue Ribbon Committee for the Rehabilitation of Clear Lake, supporting work to protect, restore and enhance California’s cultural, community and natural resources.

Residents can follow the Kuhla’Napo Preserve burn on Watch Duty.

More information is available on TERA’s Lake Cal-TREX page and tule restoration page.

Questions for Lake County Land Trust can be directed to [email protected] or 707-262-0707.