Wildfire Prevention at Wind Wolves Preserve
A Collaborative Effort to Protect Communities and Habitats
Wind Wolves Preserve in July, photo by Melissa Dabulamanzi
The Wildlands Conservancy is dedicated to preserving California’s diverse ecosystems, and Wind Wolves Preserve is a key part of that mission. Spanning 93,000 acres, the Preserve is home to many plant and animal species. However, its proximity to several communities makes wildfire prevention a top priority.
Thanks to a grant from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), Wildlands has launched the San Emigdio Mountains Prescriptive Grazing Project, a program designed to reduce the risk of wildfires while benefiting the land and its wildlife.
A New Approach to Wildfire Prevention
To help reduce the threat of wildfires, CAL FIRE awarded Wildlands a grant for a prescriptive grazing program. The project started in parts of Wind Wolves Preserve that lack basic infrastructure, such as water tanks and fenced grazing areas. Cattle and sheep are rotated through these areas using portable fencing and water troughs. This method helps clear out dry plant material, which can easily catch fire and fuel wildfires. The goal is to reduce this dry plant material to safer levels, covering 750 acres. This strategy plays a vital role in making the land more resilient to wildfires and protecting the nearby communities.
“With the expanse of grasslands on Wind Wolves Preserve and the generational knowledge of livestock operators, prescriptive grazing is the most effective way to reduce flammable fuels and support Kern County’s biodiversity, benefiting air quality, soil health, and the overall environment.” — Melissa Dabulamanzi, Central Coast Ranges Regional Director
Why Wind Wolves Preserve?
Wind Wolves Preserve is located within San Emigdio Mountains and nearby communities like Lebec, Frazier Park, and Pine Mountain Club. Because the Preserve is close to areas filled with dry, fire-prone vegetation, it is especially vulnerable to wildfires. By using prescriptive grazing, Wildlands is helping reduce the risk of fire. This method not only protects the Preserve but also helps safeguard surrounding communities from the threat of wildfires.
Supporting Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health
In addition to wildfire prevention, this project helps support a healthy environment by promoting the growth of native plants. Wind Wolves Preserve is home to many important habitats, including those for species that are threatened or endangered, like the San Joaquin kit fox and California condor. Some areas of the Preserve have been overrun by non-native annual grasses, but the grazing program helps improve soil health and creates space for native plants to thrive.
After just one season of prescriptive grazing, San Emigdio Canyon saw an increase in wildflowers, showing how effective this method is at restoring the land. Grazing also benefits pollinators like bees, helps store carbon, and improves the soil’s ability to hold water— all essential for keeping the environment healthy. This approach is creating a balanced and thriving landscape at Wind Wolves Preserve, ensuring that the land remains strong and resilient for years to come.
Wildflowers at Wind Wolves Preserve photo by Melissa Dabulamanzi
A Collaborative Effort for Wildfire Resilience
The San Emigdio Mountains Prescriptive Grazing Project is the result of a partnership between CAL FIRE, Wildlands, and local stakeholders. This collaboration brings together experts in livestock management and land conservation to create a program that benefits both the environment and wildfire prevention efforts.
The project is part of California Climate Investments, a statewide initiative that uses funds from the state’s Cap-and-Trade program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, strengthen the economy, and improve public health and the environment— particularly in disadvantaged communities. This project not only aims to reduce the risk of wildfires but also supports broader environmental goals that help protect both people and nature.
Funding for this project was provided by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection’s (CAL FIRE) Wildfire Prevention Grants Program.
