It's been a rough start to fire "season" in the lower American River Parkway. Fire is a natural event here as in many areas but dry conditions and human carelessness have greatly increased the risk of fire. The frequency and intensity of many of the fires that burn now increase threats to wildlife and lead to habitat loss that is difficult to recover. Cooking fires, BBQs, camp fires, fireworks and similar human activities in the Parkway are not legal in most locations. If you see a fire burning or someone doing something that could quickly lead to a fire you can make a 911 call. Unfortunately, the fire departments are no stranger to responding to the many grass and other vegetation fires that seem to occur now on a daily basis. A few photos from recent fires in the area follow. Unfortunately, there will be many more soon.
An estimated 20+ acres of grassland foraging habitat in the Woodlake area directly across from SLP burned a few days ago. Nearby several pairs of threatened Swainson's hawks are nesting and use this area regularly.
Looking south from Costco/REI area towards Woodlake with river and SLP beyond. 
The latest Woodlake area fire smolders while another recent fire there can be seen across the dirt road.
Ground view looking across Woodlake area towards the river and SLP mound
Another recent Woodlake area fire under windy conditions caused a blackout for trail users and could have been much worse.
This fire was located near Bell Marine on parcels to be added to SLP. Elderberry/grassland habitat impacted.
This recent fire burned in mature riparian cottonwood habitat at Discovery park. It will be difficult to restore.
The burned area was previously denser tree canopy than remaining habitat across the bike trail at Discovery Park.
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