BLM Bakersfield to conduct prescribed burn at Carrizo Plain National Monument 

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Bureau of Land Management

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Bakersfield Field Office

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An image of the Carrizo Plain National Monument. Photo courtesy Karl Geurs.BAKERSFIELD, Calif. – The Bureau of Land Management Bakersfield Field Office plans to conduct a 175-acre broadcast, prescribed burn in the northern section of the Carrizo Plain National Monument on Wed., Dec. 4, depending on weather and air quality conditions. The prescribed burn will remove non-native grasses south of the Goodwin Education Center, off Soda Lake Road, and help restore the area for seeding of native species. 

The Carrizo Plain National Monument will remain open during burn activities, and signs will be posted on Soda Lake Road to alert visitors of the prescribed fire location. As a precaution, visitors should watch for wildland fire equipment including fire engines, water tenders and bulldozers on the roads and be prepared to slow down.  There may be short delays on Soda Lake Road during the burn. 

The prescribed burn is expected to be completed in one day. Smoke may be visible in the surrounding area, but should dissipate relatively quickly. The burn is being closely coordinated with the San Luis Obispo County Air Pollution Control District. Alternate burn activity could occur in the coming months. 

For specific questions, please contact the BLM fire management staff or Carrizo Plain National Monument staff at 661-391-6000.


The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.