For Immediate Release
Date:November 7, 2008

WILDLAND FIRE SEASON ENDS FOR 2008

The Sequoia National Forest, Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Bakersfield Field Office, Tule River Reservation, and Kern County Fire Department announced today an Interagency Declaration to end the 2008 wildland fire season. 

On the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument, this declaration includes all forest lands in Tulare, Fresno and Kern Counties.  For the BLM Bakersfield District, this declaration affects all BLM public lands located in Kern, Tulare, Fresno/Kings, Madera, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura Counties, also included are State Lands under the protection of the Kern County Fire Department within the County of Kern.

Officials say they will maintain and staff an appropriate level of fire protection resources despite the end of fire season.   They warn the potential for increased wildfire activity still exists with transitioning weather patterns.  Homeowners should maintain a level of fire awareness inside and outside and recreational visitors are still being urged to Be Fire Safe!

According to Sequoia National Forest Fire Chief Brent Skaggs, “Usually by autumn, the threat of extreme fire danger is reduced with cooler temperatures, some precipitation, and higher humidity. This week, however, Santa Ana winds are predicted for southern California and the southern Sierra so we are prepared to respond to changing conditions,” he said.

Forest and BLM federal firefighting agencies have laid off some seasonal forces, including helicopters and some fire engines, however they are ready to activate additional fire crews and equipment to respond if wildfire activity increases.  Kern County Fire Department helicopter 408 will remain available throughout the year as will at least one hand crew.  All three agencies will have firefighters busy conducting prescribed burns and completing fuels projects throughout the winter; remaining available to suppress wildland fires if necessary.