Wildfire preparedness strategies for farms covered in UC ANR webinars

May 10, 2024

UCCE advisors will present webinars on May 21 and 28

Late spring rains have delayed California's fire season this year, which provides farmers and ranchers an opportunity to improve their wildfire preparedness. Barns, wood fencing, hay and other property commonly found on farms have inherent vulnerabilities to wildfire. 

Fortunately, buildings and infrastructure can be hardened and maintained to reduce their vulnerability to fire and fire-related damage to agricultural resources. Having a plan in place to keep livestock safe and healthy is essential to maintaining animal health and resume operations as quickly as possible post-wildfire. Join the UC Agriculture and Natural Resources Fire Network team to learn about wildfire preparedness strategies for farms and ranches.

The two-part webinar series will cover hardening structures and managing livestock during wildfire.

Part 1: Ranch Hardening and Wildfire Preparedness Strategies for Agricultural Structures

  • May 21 at 6-7 p.m.
  • Join UC Cooperative Extension fire advisor Luca Carmignani and UCCE forest advisor Yana Valachovic to discuss best practices for incorporating principles of structure hardening and defensible space into agricultural structures and operations. 
  • Register by May 20 at https://bit.ly/3y1MbuP. Link to webinar will be emailed to registrants.

Part 2: The Realities of Managing Livestock Health During Wildfire

  • May 28 at 6-7:30 p.m.
  • Join UCCE livestock and natural resource advisors and our partners for a set of presentations about managing livestock health during wildfire events and what to do if you find yourself trapped by an approaching wildfire.
  • Register by May 20 at https://bit.ly/3y1MbuP. Link to webinar will be emailed to registrants.

By Pamela S Kan-Rice
Author - Assistant Director, News and Information Outreach