Cal Fire conducting prescribed burn in Diablo Range Thursday and Friday

Cal Fire said it will conduct a prescribed burn in the Diablo Range in San Benito County Thursday and Friday.

As a result, smoke may be visible in several areas, including King City, Bitterwater, Pinnacles National Park, New Idria, southern San Benito County and the San Joaquin Valley. Cal Fire said smoke from the burn is normal and may still be visible when the burn is over.

Cal Fire said the purpose of the prescribed burn is to reintroduce fire into the ecosystem, which removes brushed and woody debris. Cal Fire hopes these burns reduce the severity of wildfires by giving more protection and reestablishing natural ecosystems. The burn also gives fire crews hands-on training in a controlled environment.

The burn is expected to cover about 6,800 acres on private property.