Invasive Plant Management

The San Rafael Fire Department's Wildfire Prevention team is actively managing invasive plant species in multiple fuel reduction zones throughout the City to protect our community and newly established native vegetation. Following eucalyptus removal in the West San Pedro Fuel Reduction Zone two years ago, French broom has rapidly spread, threatening young native oak and toyon plantings while creating dangerous wildfire fuel loads. Crews are treating broom in West San Pedro, the San Rafael San Anselmo Fuel Reduction Zone, and San Rafael Hill using Garlon 4 Ultra herbicide applied with precision low-pressure backpack sprayers directly to plant stems-a targeted method that minimizes environmental impact while effectively controlling these invasive species.

Treated areas are safe for public access once the product has dried, though we ask residents to keep dogs on leash and to remain on designated trails while visiting these areas. This work ensures our fuel reduction efforts remain effective by preventing invasive species from undoing years of vegetation management and native habitat restoration.