It’s Wildfire Preparedness Week in California. Over the last three years, CAL FIRE says they’ve experienced five of the deadliest blazes and seven of the most destructive in the state’s history. And with a much drier winter, compared to a year ago, Mary Eldridge, with the Nevada-Yuba-Placer Unit, says they’ve had a lot more “starts” this year already, statewide, or 916, consuming 11-hundred-96 acres…

A year ago, after one of the wettest winters ever, there were 554 “starts”, but acreage was about the same, at 12-hundred-four. And since last year, CAL FIRE says it’s amplified resources. Eldridge says that includes new Blackhawk helicopters, that can carry and deliver more water, and have night vision…

Also, 35 high priority fuel reduction projects have enhanced protection of 90-thousand acres. That includes the so-called Ponderosa West Grass Valley Project that covers 12-hundred acres, where Phase One was completed late last year. The rest of the work will be coordinated through the Fire Safe Council of Nevada County, which must seek grant funding.