Ranch fire protection strategies

• Evaluate the fire hazards on the Ranch

A first visit organized by HWMO  and the County Fire Department on May 24, 2022 concluded that the Ranch has a number of assets in its favor: broad roads and regularly mowed shoulders, which together provide 60 foot firebreaks, a reasonable amount of water storage and pumping capability (provided the electricity stays on), two evacuation exits and a local volunteer fire department.  More concerning are the dry grasses pervading the Ranch and invasive species, especially in gullies  and undeveloped lots (without cattle abattement any longer) and in neighboring lands, the often fierce winds, the possibility of losing electricity, internet and cell communication and the distance of the nearest fire stations. 

A second hazard assessment visit  took place on January 12, 2023 leading to a Community Assessment report, an essential element in our application to Firewise.

• Risk mitigation: 

  • The main issue is the control oif the vegetation and invasive species, now that cattle are not grazing on the Ranch. 

  • The Fire Protection Subcommittee is looking at possibilities of clearing regularly the gullies and creating fire breaks at the periphery of the Ranch, for instance ny maintaining the equestrian trails and make agreements with the neighboring ranches.

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• Assuring the resilience of the infrastructure in case of fire

  • The highest priority is to maintain the water supply of the Ranch and therefore the electricity supply. 

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Last edited 10/9/2022