Controlled Burn Of Grassland Helps Train Local Firefighters

About 35 acres west of Oakdale on Sunday were part of a controlled burn that served as both a training exercise and fire prevention service.

Ten members of the Oakdale Volunteer Fire Department spent Sunday about three-quarters of a mile west of Oakdale on land owned by Kevin Hild.

With ample moisture in the ground and bottom stems of the plants, officials said Sunday provided a good opportunity for the controlled burn. Officials said the fire will help promote new grass growth and get rid of the weed and cedar tree problem.

Among the 10 people who trained on the fire were two new members to the Oakdale squad, Casey Garcia and Tanner Dozler.