From September 21st
through October 5th the City of Santa Barbara Fire Department will
be conducting fuels reduction at Skofield Park using sheep to graze overgrown
vegetation. Approximately 100 sheep will spend the next 2 weeks thinning
overgrowth on 7 acres in the southern section of the park. Skofield Park is
located in the northern part of the City off Las Canoas Rd.
The City of Santa Barbara has
contracted with Cuyama Lamb LLC to provide livestock as a form of biological
management within the Community Fuels Treatment Network. Using grazing as a
method to complete vegetation management minimizes the impact to project areas
and reduces overall emissions when compared to equipment like chainsaws and
wood chippers. Additionally, a site specific biological evaluation has been
completed prior in order to ensure best management practices are followed and
ecological resources are protected.
This vegetation management
project is funded through the Wildland Fire Suppression Assessment District and
is part of the ongoing effort to improve wildfire safety within the City of
Santa Barbara and surrounding communities.
We request all visitors of
Skofield Park to maintain a respectful distance from the sheep and ensure dogs
are leashed at all times. For any questions about the project, please contact
Chris Braden, Fire Services Specialist at (805)564-5737. You can also visit the
City Fire Department’s website at SantaBarbaraCA.gov/wildland for additional
information on wildfire preparedness and learn more about the Wildland Fire
Suppression Assessment District’s programs and services.
