Angel Island prescribed burn sends smoke across San Francisco Bay

A controlled prescribed burn is currently underway on approximately 260 acres of Angel Island in the San Francisco Bay. The operation, conducted by California State Parks, Cal Fire, and the Marin County Fire Department, aims to reduce fuel loads of dry grassland and coastal scrub to prevent intense wildfires. The burn also targets invasive species to support native vegetation and wildlife habitats.

Smoke from the operation has been visible across the Bay Area, with some air quality sensors in Berkeley reporting levels above 150, which is considered unhealthy for the general public. Officials have coordinated with the Bay Area Air Quality Management District to manage smoke dispersal and have requested that residents do not call 911 to report the smoke.

While Angel Island State Park remains open, certain areas including the Ida Trail, Sunset Trail, and the summit of Mount Livermore may face closures for one to three days. The project is supported by a $10 billion climate bond passed by California voters in 2024.