Ready for the Fourth Oakland deploys goats as part of strategy to reduce fire-fuel hazards

Oakland officials are intensifying fire prevention efforts as the Fourth of July holiday approaches, focusing on the dangers of illegal fireworks and the ongoing wildfire risks. Mayor Barbara Lee and Fire Chief Damon Covington unveiled a comprehensive vegetation management plan that includes the unique approach of using goats to clear dry grasses and other fire hazards. Starting July 4, Grizzly Peak Boulevard will close for 24 hours to limit access during peak fire risk times, while extra patrols will be deployed to enforce the city’s fireworks ban. Covington reiterated that all fireworks are illegal in Oakland, emphasizing the importance of legal celebrations to ensure community safety. The city’s proactive stance follows the passage of Measure MM, a parcel tax providing $2.

7 million annually for fire prevention efforts. Ramachandran highlighted the significance of the news conference location, the Firestorm Memorial Garden, a site of a catastrophic fire in 1991. With the budget maintaining all 25 fire stations for the first time in 20 years, the city is better equipped to handle fire emergencies. These measures reflect a commitment to safeguarding residents and preventing another disaster like the one in 1991.