Chino Hills State Park wildfire management audit reveals deficiencies

A California State Auditor report has identified deficiencies in the wildfire management and resilience efforts at Chino Hills State Park. The audit found that while the Department of Parks and Recreation is required to maintain defensible spaces, the agency could not provide complete documentation to prove that vegetation management was consistently performed.

The report highlights a need for improved coordination between State Parks, surrounding cities, and fire suppression agencies. While the park has planned for such coordination, the auditor noted these efforts have not yet been completed. Additionally, the park’s Wildfire Management Plan requires updates to better align with current best practices.

The auditor recommended that State Parks improve its documentation, increase coordination consistency, and assess workforce needs. There was also a recommendation for the Legislature to amend a state grant program to assist neighboring landowners in maintaining defensible space where private and public lands meet. Southern California Edison currently coordinates with the park to manage wildfire resilience regarding power lines.