IRC: Helping Prevent Wildfires Before They Start

A project aimed at preventing wildfires has been underway in Bommer Canyon since August 2023. Open space areas bordering urban development, such as Bommer Canyon, are especially susceptible to burning. The project aims to create natural fire breaks, should a fire ignite.

The project was funded by a $1 million dollar grant provided by the California Natural Resources Agency to the City of Irvine, with support by California State Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris. The goal of restoration in Bommer Canyon is to reduce the risk of wildfire by replacing invasive plants – like Black Mustard, and other species that present a fire risk to surrounding neighborhoods and wildlife – with native plants.

The City of Irvine has elicited the help of Irvine Ranch Conservancy in managing this project, which include planting and watering 9,000 container plants across sixteen native species.

The final phase of the project will conclude in March 2026, but IRC will continue to manage the site on behalf of the city for five additional years.

To read more, click this link: https://voiceofoc.org/2025/03/preventing-wildfires-before-they-start/