Wildfire authority needs to make some changes

The annual allocation of $19 million in Measure C funds for wildfire prevention, managed by Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority, raises significant concerns. Despite the purported focus on safeguarding Marin residents, the substantial budget appears to disproportionately prioritize vegetation management over crucial home hardening, allocating a mere 20% of the funds to this vital aspect of wildfire protection.

This resource allocation imbalance is particularly troubling in light of onsite studies, like those stemming from the 2018 Paradise Fire, highlighting the paramount importance of home hardening in areas where urban and wildland environments intersect. The potential compromise of Marin residents' safety becomes evident as the majority of funds are directed toward vegetation management on both private and public land.

Further exacerbating concerns is the continued use of the highly toxic Garlon 4 herbicide in public spaces throughout the county. Despite proven nontoxic alternatives used in the watershed, MWPA continues to use herbicides, prompting questions about their cumulative impact on human health and the environment.

In addition to the unease surrounding MWPA's practices, plans for logging in a 10acre pilot area as part of the San Rafael-San Anselmo Fuel Reduction Project may begin this month. Concerned neighbors, expressing reservations, highlighted potential harm to nesting birds during the primary bird nesting season.

This scheduling conflict starkly contradicts MWPA's plan, which emphasizes avoiding the active nesting season of birds and raptors, aligning with state requirements and protection under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and California Fish and Game Code.

Despite months of voiced concerns from the Sierra Club and vigilant individuals, it appears to me that MWPA officials have been dismissive. I oppose this allocation of tax dollars and believe Marin residents deserve comprehensive information about these behind-the-scenes issues affecting their safety and well-being.