Which agency is responsible for fire management and prevention in California?

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, commonly known as Cal Fire, is the primary agency responsible for fire management and prevention in California. Cal Fire's mission is to protect the state's public and private resources from the devastating effects of wildfires, which includes providing firefighting services, forest management, and fire prevention efforts. The agency also plays a crucial role in coordinating statewide disaster responses involving fire emergencies.

Cal Fire's responsibilities encompass a wide range of activities beyond just fighting fires; they also educate the public about fire safety, conduct controlled burns as part of forest management practices, and develop fire prevention programs that seek to minimize risks in vulnerable areas. This comprehensive approach ensures that Cal Fire is well-equipped to address the unique wildfire challenges faced by California.

Other agencies, while important in their respective areas, do not have the same primary focus on fire management or cover the statewide responsibilities handled by Cal Fire. For example, the California Highway Patrol is involved in law enforcement and traffic safety, the California Emergency Management Agency focuses on disaster response and recovery, and the United States Forest Service administers national forests but does not solely manage fire prevention for the entire state. Each of these organizations has its own set of duties, but Cal Fire is distinctly designated as the authority on