California State Parks to Conduct Prescribed Burn Near Highway 1 in Pescadero

San Mateo County - On October 14, 2026, California State Parks will conduct a prescribed burn near Highway 1 in Pescadero at Ano Nuevo State Park to support ecological restoration, improve wildlife habitat, and reduce hazardous fuel buildup.

The burn will treat approximately 145 acres of coastal prairie habitat at Ano Nuevo State Park, on the ocean side of Highway 1.

Schedule:

• Date: October 14, 2026
• Location: Near Cascade Ranch in Pescadero
• Hours: 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Prescribed burns are an important land management tool that helps maintain healthy grasslands by reducing accumulated vegetation and returning essential nutrients to the soil. These treatments also help reduce hazardous fuels and lower the risk of severe wildfires.

Smoke safety:
Prescribed burns generally produce significantly less smoke than wildfires, but smoke may still be noticeable in nearby areas. If you see or smell smoke, officials recommend avoiding strenuous outdoor activities and staying indoors as much as possible. These precautions are especially important for children, older adults, and people with respiratory or heart conditions.

All work is weather dependent. Please drive with caution. Thank you for your patience as we work to maintain our state's highways, bridges, and tunnels.