There is currently a fire hazard in the East Bay Hills. Over many years, urban development has expanded into adjacent wildlands, increasing the density of homes and vegetation that contribute to the risk of fires. This build up of both natural and man made fuel, combined with the steep topography and periods of extreme weather, create the potential for catastrophic fire behavior. An uncontrolled fire can destroy homes, threaten public safety, damage plant and wildlife communities and potentially contribute to the erosion and sedimentation of the streams and reservoirs that supply drinking water to many East Bay residents.
Fire is not a new phenomenon in the East Bay Hills. The Mediterranean climate, the rugged topography, and the build up of vegetation all create conditions which cause fire. Intermittent wildland fires are a natural part of the eco-system for this area. However, in recent years, both a shifting urban-wildland interface and the practice of fire suppression have contributed to the increased potential for catastrophic fires.
Wildlands are considered those areas greater than 5 acres in size predominantly vegetated, with relatively little development. Wildland conditions with the potential for creating flame lengths of 8 feet or more, or the ability to reach into the crowns, or tops, of trees were identified as extreme hazards. These two criteria are nationally recognized as resulting in fires that spread rapidly and are difficult to control. There are four types of fire which can occur in a wildland blaze: ground, surface, crown, and spotting.
