A controlled burn is planned Tuesday near Lake Mathews, targeting more than 100 acres, and area residents and motorists were advised not to be alarmed by the smoke.
According to the Riverside County Fire Department, the burn is scheduled between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. within the Lake Mathews Orchard Plot, which has become overgrown with weeds and other excess vegetation.
The operation will have the added effect of restoring habitat for the Kangaroo Rat and burrowing owl, officials said.
Roughly 106 acres is slated for elimination, weather-permitting, according to the fire department.
“Drift smoke may be visible from nearby communities, but will disperse quickly and is not expected to be a health hazard,” according to an agency statement.
Prescribed burns are conducted every spring in the county, during calm wind days with moderate to high relative humidity, reducing wildfire danger. The burns double as training sessions for personnel.
Prescribed burning took place over a three-day period last week in the Lake Perris State Recreation Area, where more than 230 acres was torched.
Anyone with questions or concerns should call the department’s public affairs bureau at 951-940-6985.