Fire crews to conduct prescribed burn in Idyllwild Tuesday

IDYLLWILD - Fire crews will conduct a prescribed burn tomorrow to clear away brush and create a fire buffer in Idyllwild.

The burn will take place along the Redhill south fuel break below the Nature Center. The break was established in 1994 to provide a fire buffer from Pine Cove to Strawberry Creek, according to Cal Fire Capt. Mike Smith.

Smith said the burn is the final step in reducing the fuel load for the area. Fire crews worked throughout the summer to thin brush and clear out dead vegetation in the area.

''The goal of this prescribed burn is to reduce hazardous wildfire fuels and to improve the wildlife habitat,'' Smith said.

Burns are scheduled to begin today and could last through March 31, Smith said. Smith said the department requires approval from the South Coast Air Quality Management District and will only conduct burns during proper weather conditions.