Contra Costa Herald

News Of By and For The People of Contra Costa County, California

A Chapter Closes: Chief Brian Helmick reflects on 30 years of fire service

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Con Fire Deputy Chief and former East Contra Costa Fire Chief Brian Helmick says farewell after 30 years of service. Photos courtesy of Brian Helmick

Former East Contra Costa Fire Chief, Con Fire Deputy Chief retires

By Allen D. Payton

On Monday, Feb. 2nd, Contra Costa Fire Protection District (Con Fire) Deputy Chief Brian Helmick announced his retirement after 30 years of service.

To the Residents, Partners, and Servants of Eastern Contra Costa County:

As I prepare to retire from the fire service after 30 years, I do so with a full heart and deep gratitude for the privilege of serving this community.

In 2022, I wrote to you as I stepped away from the role of Fire Chief of the East Contra Costa Fire Protection District during a season of transition, as East Contra Costa Fire was annexed into Contra Costa County Fire. At that time, the work was unfinished, the future still unfolding, and my own calling to serve had not yet reached its final chapter.

Today, nearly four years later, that chapter is closing.

When I look back on my career, I do not primarily see titles, ranks, or milestones. I see people. I see firefighters who stood the watch with courage and integrity. I see labor partners, board members, city and county leaders, chaplains, pastors, and public servants who carried responsibility faithfully, often behind the scenes. I see community members who trusted their firefighters, and me, during moments of crisis, uncertainty, and change.

No one completes a 30-year career in public service alone. Whatever good came from my years in the fire service was the result of shared sacrifice, collective leadership, and people willing to place service above self.

I entered this profession as a young man drawn by the mission and the camaraderie. What I learned over time is that the fire service is not simply a job. It is a calling. A calling that shapes your character, tests your resolve, and reminds you that leadership is not about position, but about stewardship, caring for people, making difficult decisions with humility, and honoring the trust placed in you.

To the firefighters I served alongside, past and present, thank you for your professionalism, your honesty, and your willingness to hold one another accountable. You taught me that leadership is forged in long nights, hard and courageous conversations, and shared responsibility. You also taught me that trust is earned daily.

To our labor leaders, agency partners, and elected officials, thank you for standing shoulder to shoulder during seasons that demanded perseverance, collaboration, and vision. The progress we achieved together was never about recognition. It was about doing what was right for the communities we serve.

We also pause with reverence for those who have gone before us. The fallen are never forgotten. Their sacrifice reminds us that this profession carries real cost, and that serving well means honoring the legacy they left behind.

Brian Helmick will now have more time to spend with his wife, Kristen and their three daughters.

While the sacrifices made in the line of duty weigh heavily, the foundation for my service has always been at home, even though the toll of this calling often kept me from being as present as I wish I had been. I want to thank my family. This career belonged to them as much as it did to me. My bride, Kristen, carried the unseen weight of this calling with strength and grace. My three daughters shared their dad with the fire service, and I hope they know that every long shift and late night was motivated by love. They are my greatest legacy, not what I accomplished over 30 years in the fire service, but the lives I was, and am, entrusted with for a lifetime.

I am also deeply grateful for my extended family, whose encouragement, prayers, and steady presence sustained us through the demands of this calling. Your support reminded us that we were never walking this road alone.

Above all, I give thanks to God. Through every season, success and failure, clarity and uncertainty, He has been faithful. I am especially thankful for my home church, Golden Hills Community Church and for the pastors, elders, men’s ministry and small groups who have prayed for me, encouraged my faith and faithfully walked with me and my family for decades. Their spiritual support and friendship have been a constant source of strength. Scripture reminds us, “Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.” If anything I built endures, it is only because He was the builder.

While I am retiring from the fire service, the calling to serve does not retire. Although my watch as Fire Chief has passed, the mission continues, and I have complete confidence in those who remain, standing ready to answer the next call.

To the community of East Contra Costa County, thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving you. It has been an honor, one I will carry with gratitude for the rest of my life.

With sincere appreciation, respect, and for His glory,

Brian Helmick

Fire Chief Ret.

To God be the glory.

State Senator Tim Grayson, Supervisor Diane Burgis, Fire Chief Lewis Brousard and Firefighters union President Vince Wells spoke about Helmick and presented him with resolutions during his retirement ceremony on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026. Video screenshots

Retirement Ceremony

Con Fire held a retirement ceremony for Helmick at Golden Hills Community Church on Saturday, January 31st. State Senator Tim Grayson offered accolades and presented him with a framed resolution by the State Senate recognizing Helmick’s years of service. That was followed by remarks by Contra Costa County District 3 Supervisor Diane Burgis, who presented Helmick with a framed resolution from the Board of Supervisors and gave him a hug. Con Fire Chief Lewis Brousard spoke highly Helmick who presented him with another framed resolution, as did Vince Wells, President of the United Professional Firefighters of Contra Costa County, who were among those to also speak during the ceremony.  (See video)

Helmick’s retirement follows that of Brousard’s recent announcement of his own retirement effective March 30, 2026, leaving a leadership gap in the department.

Education and Leadership Experience

According to his LinkedIn profile, Helmick earned a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in 2014 followed by a Master’s degree in 2020, both in Organizational Leadership. Earlier in his career he served as Battalion Chief for East Contra Costa Fire for almost 11 years, then Fire Chief for a little over five years before the districts merged and he took on the role of Deputy Chief for Con Fire.

He will continue to serve as a member of the Board of Elders and as a Men’s Ministry Coordinator at Golden Hills.

About Contra Costa County Fire Protection District

Con Fire provides fire and emergency medical services to more than one million residents and visitors in 13 cities and 12 unincorporated areas across our expanded 582 square-mile jurisdiction. The district comprises 35 fire stations and more than 670 firefighters and professional staff. Through our unique ambulance “Alliance,” the district delivers EMS and ambulance transport services to much of Contra Costa County. For more information about Con Fire visit cccfpd.org.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

 

Fire Chief Broschard announces retirement from Contra Costa County Fire Protection District

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Contra Costa County Fire Protection District Fire Chief Lewis Broschard to retire after 18 years of service. Photo: Con Fire

By Lauren Ono, PIO, Contra Costa County Fire Protection District

Concord, CA – Fire Chief Lewis Broschard has announced his retirement from the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District after more than 18 years of service. The announcement marks the conclusion of a distinguished career dedicated to public safety, leadership, and service to the residents of Contra Costa County and to the men and women of Contra Costa Fire.

“Serving as Fire Chief for the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District has been the greatest honor of my career,” said Chief Broschard. “I am incredibly proud of the members of this organization and grateful for the trust and support of the community, our Board of Supervisors, and the County Administrator’s Office. I leave knowing the District is positioned for continued success.”

Under Chief Broschard’s tenure, the Fire District has experienced significant organizational and operational advancements, including the annexation of East Contra Costa Fire Protection District and the Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District, and entered into a contract for service with the City of Pinole. The District established a firefighting hand crew program, launched a seasonal aerial firefighting helicopter program, implemented an apparatus replacement program, increased staffing in operations and fire prevention, and undertook the rebuilding of several fire stations. Additionally, the regional fire dispatch center was expanded and modernized, 911 dispatcher staffing levels were increased, emergency ambulance operations were strengthened and expanded, and numerous health and wellness initiatives were introduced for our members. Significant wildfire mitigation projects were funded and completed across the county and over 40 new Firewise communities were formed in the District. The District also achieved a substantial improvement in its Insurance Services Office (ISO) rating, advancing from a combined 3/8B and 4/9 to a uniform Class 2/2Y rating across the district.

“Chief Broschard has led the Fire District through complex operational challenges, historic wildfire seasons, and significant organizational growth, all while maintaining a focus on the safety of residents and fire personnel. We are deeply grateful for his decades of service and wish him a long and fulfilling retirement.” Board Chair Diane Burgis, District 3 Chair.

Chief Broschard’s retirement will be effective March 30, 2026. Information regarding the process for selecting the next Fire Chief will be announced separately.

The Contra Costa County Fire Protection District extends its sincere appreciation to Fire Chief Lewis Broschard for his years of distinguished service and congratulates him on a well-earned retirement.

About Contra Costa County Fire Protection District – Con Fire provides fire and emergency medical services to more than one million residents and visitors in 13 cities and 12 unincorporated areas across our expanded 582 square-mile jurisdiction. The district comprises 35 fire stations and more than 670 firefighters and professional staff. Through our unique ambulance “Alliance,” the district delivers EMS and ambulance transport services to much of Contra Costa County. For more information about Con Fire visit cccfpd.org.

Con Fire and Firefighters Association to host Santa’s Firehouse Toy Drive Dec. 19-21

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Four locations

By Contra Costa County Fire Protection District

THIS WEEKEND!

Contra Costa County Fire Protection District and the United Professional Firefighters Association of Contra Costa County Local 1230 are partnering to collect new, unwrapped toys for children in our communities!

Celebrate the season with Santa at one of his four stops across the county! Donate a toy, enjoy cookies and cocoa, and meet your local firefighters!

Fire Station 10- 2955 Treat Blvd., Concord
Friday, December 19, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Fire Station 82- 196 Bluerock Drive, Antioch
Saturday, December 20, 10:00 AM – Noon

Fire Station 92- 201 John Muir Parkway, Brentwood
Saturday, December 20, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Fire Station 76- 1680 Refugio Valley Road, Hercules
Sunday, December 21, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM

For more information about Con Fire visit www.cccfpd.org.

Richmond Firefighters and Police to hold Toy Program Benefit Raffle Dec. 13

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Gift Giveaway Dec. 20

By The Richmond Fire & Police Toy Program

Each year, Richmond Firefighters and Police Officers come together to bring holiday cheer to families in need through the annual Toy Program. This special event helps ensure that every child can experience the joy of the season.

The joy of watching kids opening their presents is something most parents look forward to at Christmas.  Sadly, some families don’t get to see that joy because they can’t afford presents or even a nice meal.

West County families need your help. Many families struggle to make ends meet during the holidays. You can help a family having tough times. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation.

This Saturday, Dec. 13, a Benefit Raffle will be held at St. David of Wales Catholic School, located at 871 Sonoma Street, Richmond to support the Program. We will have food, games and more. Please bring new, unwrapped gifts.

The gift giveaway will take place on Dec. 20th at DeJean Middle School at 3400 MacDonald Avenue in Richmond, beginning at 9:00 a.m. (Sign-ups to receive gifts have already ended).

About The Richmond Fire and Police Toy Program  

In 1989, Richmond firefighter Rod Woods (now retired) saw the need in the community and organized a small local toy drive to help families in need.  At the same time and separately, the Richmond Police Department also saw the need in the community, only their focus was on providing families with food for that special meal and beyond.

After many years of growing their separate programs and having outgrown the space at the Booker T. Anderson Community Center where the event took place, Fire and Police decided to unite as one entity and file for non-profit status so they could get corporate sponsors to help more families.  Chevron Fire stepped up and continues their support.  El Cerrito Fire also joined for a time.

The E.M. Downer YMCA stepped up to offer a larger space in their gym, as well as providing support for the sign-ups, administrative support and smiles all around.  The program went from serving over 500 families with toys and food to over 1,500 with the addition of a chance to win a donated bicycle.

Corporate sponsors such as Chevron, Mechanics Bank, Richmond Sanitary, Richmond Rotary, Sims Metal, Costco, the Courtyard by Marriott and many others stepped up to the plate to offer not only money, but volunteers who helped with toy bagging, food bagging and at the event itself, handing out bags, helping to carry bags, handling the bike giveaway and much more.  There were bikes to build, trucks to drive to pick up toys, bikes, food and chicken.  Fire and Police, along with community volunteers, came together to make it happen.  The Richmond Police Explorers helped with the logistics and keeping the lines in order, and also with assisting those needing help carrying the bags of toys and food.

Rod Woods was the heart and soul of the program.  His outgoing personality, ability to talk people into giving support in many forms is sorely missed.

For more information or to make a donation visit https://richmondfireandpolicetoyprogram.com, call 510-375-3477 or email info@richmondfireandpolicetoyprogram.com.

Search warrant for possession of child porn leads to arrest, hazardous materials response in Antioch

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Walnut Creek PD Bomb Squad, Con Fire respond

By Lt. Drew Olson, Walnut Creek Police Department

This morning, Tuesday, November 25, 2025, Walnut Creek Police Detectives, in coordination with the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, served a search warrant at a residence in the 1600 block of Lipton Street in Antioch as part of an ongoing investigation.

One individual was arrested on suspicion of possession of child pornography.

During the search, detectives discovered suspected illegal fireworks. The WCPD Bomb Squad was requested to respond for safe collection and assessment. Upon arrival, bomb technicians identified materials requiring further evaluation, prompting a response from the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District’s Hazardous Materials (Hazmat) team.

Antioch Police posted a warning to Avoid the Area on social media with the message, “Avoid the area of Lipton Street at Trembath Lane due to an active hazmat response. Earlier this morning, a neighboring agency investigating in the area located items of concern. Out of an abundance of caution, the bomb squad was notified, and they are currently on scene. At this time, we do not believe there is any threat to the public.”

Both the WCPD Bomb Squad and CFD Hazmat have since cleared the scene. There is no ongoing threat to public safety. No further details are being released at this time due to the active nature of the investigation.

Case #: 25-36520

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Prescription for Resiliency: CA State Parks continues to expand use of beneficial fire

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Salt Point State Park TREX TRAINING – A member of the California State Parks burn crew carefully sets fire during a prescribed burn operation at Salt Point State Park Oct. 31, 2025. Photo: ©2025, California State Parks by Brian Baer

By California State Parks, California Department of Parks and Recreation, Divisions of Boating and Waterways, Historic Preservation and Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation

SACRAMENTO — On the heels of Governor Gavin Newsom’s latest executive order aimed at expanding the use of beneficial fire, California State Parks recently wrapped up prescribed burn operations at several parks statewide, continuing a significant expansion thanks to strategic investments under the Newsom administration’s wildfire packages.

With the help of historic investments under the Newsom administration, California State Parks has significantly expanded its use of prescribed fire to improve wildfire resiliency, reduce fuels and restore fire-adapted ecosystems at parks all over the state – a trend that will continue following a recent executive order.

Among the recent operations was a unique training at Salt Point State Park and Kruse Rhododendron State Natural Reserve in Sonoma County, allowing park experts to showcase how prescribed burns are an important tool in the department’s ongoing efforts to reduce wildfire risk, improve the health of the local ecosystems by supporting native plants and wildlife, protect nearby communities and promote the long-term resilience of California’s public lands.

Source: CA State Parks

“Prescribed fires are not just a land management strategy but a time-tested tool to help increase biodiversity and reduce the risk of larger, more destructive wildfires,” said California State Parks Director Armando Quintero. “Thanks to Governor Newsom’s leadership and the help of our partners, we are expanding this essential work to make our state’s majestic landscapes healthier for generations to come.”

The burn at Salt Point State Park on Oct. 31 was conducted as part of State Parks’ Prescribed Fire Training Exchange, known as TREXs. Led by an experienced team including Statewide Burn Boss Sarah Gibson, the training helps facilitate information sharing and relationship building for personnel who work with fire. These exchanges provide certified fire practitioners with the opportunity to hone their skills and work toward or achieve more advanced qualifications with the support of fellow fire management professionals, some of whom came as far away as Canada to participate. View photos and a video from the training and burn here.

Governor Newsom has signed two executive orders to streamline the use of prescribed fire in California, including one on Oct. 29 aimed at expanding use of beneficial fire as a wildfire prevention strategy, which highlighted the benefits of training exchanges. These directives are helping State Parks increase the pace and scale of its burns by supplementing funding for this essential work, streamlining the permitting process and opening the door for more partners, including volunteer fire departments and Indigenous practitioners, to be part of the burns.

Source: CA State Parks

State Parks has a more than 50-year legacy of using prescribed fire to steward California’s public lands. Even during periods when prescribed burns fell out of favor, the department maintained the use of this critical tool, guided by science and early leaders such as UC Berkeley professor Harold Biswell, a pioneer in modern fire management. Today, State Parks continues that leadership, using science-backed planning to protect native plants and wildlife, preserve cultural resources and promote healthier, more resilient ecosystems.

“State Parks has been burning for 50-plus years, and we incorporate science into every prescribed burn to steward public lands,” said Burn Boss Gibson. “The incredible work our staff is doing is helping keep California’s forests and state parks healthy.”

Learn more about State Parks’ use of prescribed fire and the benefits on our website.

The California Department of Parks and Recreation, popularly known as State Parks, and the programs supported by its Office of Historic Preservation and divisions of Boating and Waterways and Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation provide for the health, inspiration and education of the people of California by helping to preserve the state’s extraordinary biological diversity, protecting its most valued natural and cultural resources, and creating opportunities for high-quality outdoor recreation. Learn more at parks.ca.gov.

Off-duty Contra Costa AMR paramedic saves life at high school football game, earns national recognition 

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AMR Paramedic Brannen Zilk will be honored with the Star of Life Award next week. Photo: AMR

Brannen Zilka to be honored as a Star of Life Award recipient in Washington, D.C. 

October is Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month

By Amy Link, Senior Public Relations Specialist

CONCORD, CA — Seconds matter during a sudden cardiac arrest emergency, and for one spectator at a local high school football game last fall, seconds were all it took for off-duty American Medical Response (AMR) paramedic Brannen Zilka to come to their aid. Zilka witnessed this life-threatening emergency and, recognizing the severity of the situation, he immediately began CPR, retrieved an automated external defibrillator (AED) and delivered a life-saving shock. With Zilka’s quick action, the individual survived and was later discharged from the hospital without any lasting disabilities.

This year, Zilka, who lives in Benicia, stands among a select group of just 32 outstanding professionals—representing Global Medical Response’s 34,000 prehospital clinicians, dispatchers and support personnel—who have earned the distinguished Stars of Life award. Presented by the American Ambulance Association (AAA), this honor shines a light on individuals whose exceptional achievements exemplify the very best of the emergency medical services (EMS) profession and reflect the dedication and excellence shared throughout the entire workforce.

The Stars of Life program, founded by the AAA in 1996, shines a national spotlight on EMS professionals who demonstrate unwavering commitment and extraordinary impact. This year’s recipients will join peers from across the country at the AAA’s national celebration, November 2–5 in Washington, D.C.— an event dedicated to honoring the essential role of EMS in public health and safety.

“These individuals represent the highest standards of EMS, consistently exceeding expectations under pressure and making a profound difference where it matters most,” said Nick Loporcaro, president and CEO of GMR. “It’s an incredible honor to recognize these 32 caregivers for their heroic service.”

Each honoree is recognized for lifesaving interventions, innovative public health leadership, and heartfelt engagement with their communities. As part of the celebration, Stars of Life honorees will also meet with members of Congress to share the challenges and triumphs shaping today’s EMS landscape, advocating for continued support and investment in the field.

“I’m incredibly honored to receive the Stars of Life award,” said Zilka. “When I saw the cardiac arrest unfold at the football game, I didn’t hesitate—training and instinct kicked in. But it’s the strength of our EMS community and the support of my team that make moments like that possible. I’m proud to represent the lifesaving work we do every day, especially when every second counts.”

Zilka has been a dedicated team member with AMR, a Global Medical Response solution, since 2003, serving currently as a paramedic, field training officer and union shop steward. His commitment to both his team and community is evident through his involvement in specialized units, training programs and support for new hires. Outside of work, Zilka volunteers as a coach with Northern California Special Olympics and advocates for inclusive education, while also teaching lifesaving skills like CPR, Narcan administration, and Stop the Bleed to high school students—extending his impact well beyond his work as a first responder.

“Brannen’s quick thinking and decisive action during that emergency reflect the kind of leadership and compassion he brings to our team every day,” said Scott Newlin, operations manager at AMR. “His recognition as a Stars of Life honoree is well deserved, and we’re proud to have him representing our team.”

About American Ambulance Association

The American Ambulance Association represents ambulance services across the United States that participate in serving more than 75% of the U.S. population with emergency and non-emergency care and medical transportation. The AAA was formed in response to the need for improvements in medical transportation and emergency medical services. AAA views pre-hospital care not only as a public service, but also as an essential part of the total public health care system.

About American Medical Response (AMR) 

American Medical Response, Inc., America’s leading provider of emergency medical services, provides mobile healthcare in 40 states and the District of Columbia. More than 28,000 AMR paramedics, EMTs, RNs and other professionals work together to care for more than 4.8 million patients nationwide each year in critical, emergency and non-emergency situations. For more information about AMR, visit www.amr.net or on Facebook and LinkedIn.

AMR is part of Global Medical Response, the largest air and ground emergency medical service provider in the United States. With nearly 33,000 team members, the organization reaches 60% of the U.S. population, providing emergency medical care to 5.5 million patients annually and performing a critical intervention every 93 seconds. Its family of solutions includes ambulance EMS provider American Medical Response (AMR), as well as multiple air EMS organizations including Air Evac Lifeteam, REACH Air Medical Services, Guardian Flight, Med-Trans Corporation, and AirMed International. For additional information, visit GMR at www.globalmedicalresponse.com, or on Facebook and LinkedIn.

About Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month

October is National Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) Awareness Month. It’s a call to action by the American Red Cross meant to raise awareness about sudden cardiac arrest signs and symptoms and illuminate how it affects people and what to do to help save lives. For more information visit Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month | Red Cross.

4 arrested for illegal drug manufacturing, distribution operation in Pittsburg

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A Con Fire hazmat team leaves the house where the operation was located. Bags of counterfeit prescription pills and a mask were confiscated. Video screenshots by Pittsburg PD

Each held on $2 million bail; Contra Costa Sheriff’s Deputies and helicopter, Antioch PD, Con Fire hazmat team assist

By Pittsburg Police Department

On Saturday afternoon, Oct. 18, 2025, our SIU (Special Investigations Unit) detectives, along with patrol officers, served a search warrant at a Pittsburg residence connected to an illegal narcotics manufacturing and distribution operation. While those involved may have imagined themselves as criminal masterminds, the reality was far less impressive—and now their operation has been shut down.

Four suspects were detained and later booked on multiple felony charges, including conspiracy, sales and manufacturing of controlled substances. Their criminal enterprise has been dismantled.

We want to extend our sincere appreciation to STARR1, our partners at the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office and Antioch Police Department, and to Contra Costa Fire’s hazmat team for ensuring the safety of both our officers and the surrounding community throughout the operation.

Personnel from multiple agencies assisted in the effort.

Most importantly, SIU detectives seized more than 100,000 counterfeit prescription pills—approximately 70 pounds—many of which likely contained fentanyl, methamphetamine, or other dangerous substances. These pills were intended for distribution on our streets, and their removal undoubtedly prevented potential overdoses, injuries, and deaths in our community.

Tuesday morning, Oct. 21, 2025, the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office filed charges on all four individuals, with bail set at over $2 million each.

 

Contra Costa Fire Open House and Pancake Breakfast in Concord, Oct. 11

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By Con Fire

Join us this Saturday for the Contra Costa Fire Open House and Pancake Breakfast!

Date: Saturday, October 11, 2025

Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Location: 2945 Treat Blvd, Concord

FREE Pancake Breakfast!

Join us for a fun and educational day featuring live demonstrations, including fire extinguisher training, drone operations, auto extrication, roof ventilation, and rappelling.

You’ll also have the chance to meet our firefighters, recruitment team, and dispatchers, and explore fire engines, trucks, ambulances, rescue boats, and more!

Park District completes 667-acre Fuels Reduction Project in East Bay Hills

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As part of fuels reduction work a tree is removed then burned in a low-emission Tigercat 6050 carbonator machine, resulting in biochar used to enrich soil in the East Bay parks. Photos: EBRPD

Invested $12.5 million in Park District, state and federal funds

By Dave Mason, Public Information Supervisor, Public Affairs, East Bay Regional Park District

The East Bay Regional Park District is pleased to announce the completion of the Climate Change Impacts Wildland Hazardous Fuels Reduction Project at Anthony Chabot Regional Park. For the past three years, the Park District has been working to thin and remove hazardous trees and brush on 667 acres at Anthony Chabot to reduce fire intensity and help prevent catastrophic wildfires. (See related article)

This groundbreaking effort, the first of its kind in California, included large-scale eucalyptus removal and the use of a climate-friendly carbonizer to dispose of debris. The carbonizer produces low emissions and creates biochar, which has been used throughout the Park District to improve soil health and water retention.

In fall 2020, Park District staff noticed an increase in dead and dying trees compared with past years. The Park District began assessing die-off districtwide and found that it affected several parks. In some areas, half of the trees were either dead or showing signs they would die within a year. The condition was caused by extreme drought and climate change.

Fire fuels reduction efforts in the East Bay parks. Photos: EBRPD

“Sudden tree die-off was an emergency for the Park District,” said Park District Assistant Fire Chief Khari Helae. “We immediately saw the need to ramp up fuels reduction to mitigate the threat of potential wildfires. We can’t prevent all ignitions, but we can lower the intensity of fires by reducing fire fuels.”

“The Anthony Chabot project tackled mostly dead and dying eucalyptus, a notoriously flammable and difficult-to-handle tree. Thinning and removing eucalyptus is essential to slowing wildfires and giving firefighters time to stop them before they become out of control. Dead standing trees burn hotter and faster and can cast embers long distances, igniting new, potentially dangerous fires,” Helae added.

The 667-acre project began in 2022 with a pilot project on 80 acres near the former shooting range in Anthony Chabot Regional Park, using the climate-friendly carbonizer for biomass removal. The pilot project assessed the feasibility of using a carbonizer to remove biomass. With additional permitting, the project expanded to 445 acres and then 667 acres.

Funding sources

The project was funded through a combination of federal and state funds. The project received $7.5 million in state funding secured by former state Sen. Nancy Skinner (now serving as California Energy Commissioner) and former state Sen. Bob Wieckowski, $1.5 million in federal funding secured by U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), $1 million in grant funding from the California Coastal Conservancy, and $2.5 million from the Park District.

“We thank our federal and state partners for their leadership, support, and funding for wildfire fuels reduction work in the East Bay,” said Park District General Manager Sabrina Landreth. “Fuels reduction work helps reduce wildfire risks and is critical to protecting the community and natural resources.”

“The Park District has a deep understanding of the dangers and destruction wildfires can bring after experiencing the 1991 Oakland Hills Firestorm, which claimed 25 lives and destroyed 3,469 homes,” Landreth added.

Ongoing Wildfire Protection Efforts

Hazardous fuels reduction efforts continue districtwide, with large projects planned or underway at Tilden, Claremont Canyon, and Anthony Chabot Regional Parks, as well as Leona Canyon Open Space Regional Preserve. A 16-person fuels crew works year-round on vegetation management projects, along with goat, sheep, and cattle grazing covering 86,800 acres annually.

The Park District’s wildfire protection work includes prioritizing vegetation management, operating a professionally trained full-time and on-call department, and maintaining specialized wildland firefighting equipment, which includes two helicopters capable of dropping water on wildfires.

The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,330 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives an estimated 30 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.