Mariposa County Implements Fuel Reduction Plans With New Fire Chief Eric Pendarvis

July 26, 2025 | Mariposa County, California


This article was created by AI summarizing key points discussed. AI makes mistakes, so for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Please report any errors so we can fix them. Report an error »

Mariposa County Implements Fuel Reduction Plans With New Fire Chief Eric Pendarvis
The Fish Camp Planning Advisory meeting held on July 26, 2025, in Mariposa County, California, focused on several key issues, including fire safety initiatives and increased emergency response incidents in the area.

One of the main topics discussed was the ongoing efforts for fuel reduction in the Fish Camp area. A representative shared insights from a recent tour with officials from Assembly Member Tengue Gipa's office and State Senator Marie Alvarado Hale's office. During this tour, they received an "out year project planning map" from Hannah Haley, a fuels technician captain for the Bass Lake Ranger District. The representative expressed intentions to distribute this map and additional information to the community, highlighting the importance of planned fire safety measures.

The meeting also addressed updates from CAL FIRE, where the new county fire chief, Eric Pendarvis, was introduced. Although he could not attend the meeting due to a personal commitment, his presence was noted as a positive development for the county's fire services. The chief has filed a grant to secure funding for a permanent position within the county, which could enhance local firefighting capabilities. Currently, Mariposa County relies on reserve firefighters who work under budget constraints, responding to a significant number of medical calls and fire incidents.

Additionally, the National Park Service reported a notable increase in incidents, with 600 more calls for service in the first quarter of the year compared to previous years. This rise includes various emergencies such as vehicle accidents, medical situations, and search and rescue operations. The service indicated that staffing levels have been affected, with a 30% reduction in personnel, which may impact their ability to respond effectively during the busy summer season.

Overall, the meeting underscored the community's commitment to enhancing fire safety and emergency response capabilities in Fish Camp, while also addressing the challenges posed by increased visitor activity and staffing shortages. The discussions highlighted the need for ongoing collaboration among local agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of residents and visitors alike.

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