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Interagency officials warn of another busy 2025 fire season; drones used in prescribed burns
Summary
Interagency fire officials told the Lake County Board of Commissioners that 2024 saw above-average fires and crew demand, and they expect 2025 to be similar; officials reported about 5,000 acres of prescribed burns completed and plans for another 2,000–3,000 acres, using drones to ignite lower-impact burns.
Interagency fire officials told the Lake County Board of Commissioners on May 20 that the agency expects the 2025 fire season to mirror 2024 in activity and resource needs.
"The 2024 fire season had more fires, and required more fire crews, than the average year," Interagency Fire Staff Officer Trent Wilkie said, adding that staffing and dispatch methods for the coming season have been adjusted to meet that demand. Deputy Fire Staff Officer Drew Taylor said recent prescribed burns in the Fremont–Winema range have been extensive: "In recent months they had completed five thousand acres of controlled burn, and were anticipating another two to three thousand acres of controlled burn the following week." Taylor said crews are increasingly using drones for ignition, which he said reduces land impact and lowers costs.
The officials also noted that some prescribed-burn activity was halted early in fall 2024 because of escaped burns, prompting adjustments to timing and tactics. Commissioners did not take action on the briefing; the presentation was informational and will inform operational planning ahead of peak fire season.
Why it matters: Lake County and regional fire agencies face pressure to balance wildfire risk reduction with safety and resource constraints. The officials’ use of drones and planned acreage indicate active mitigation but also reflect caution after 2024 escapes.
What’s next: Fire staff will continue refining staffing and burn plans for the 2025 season and coordinate with county officials as needed.
