After the catastrophic windstorms and fires in the local region, many volunteers and community members with the Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy are eager to help. Administrators with Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy are concerned about the safety of community members. There are many unknown health risks, even when working in areas outside of the burn zones, and for this reason upcoming restoration and community education events are cancelled for the next two weeks.

Since it is unknown what the levels of toxicity is in deposited ash or how the soil has been affected at AFC preserves, tests will be conducted to better understand the situation. Health officials are urging people not touch or kick up the ash, which could further the health crisis that communities currently face. Urban fires pose different air quality risks than vegetation fires – the devastating burning of homes, cars and other man-made materials has resulted in lead, asbestos, heavy metals and volatile organic compounds being released into the air.

The community is encouraged to take active measures to minimize the health risks when working outside. This includes wearing a face mask or respirator (KN95 or higher), eye protection, a long-sleeved shirt and pants, boots and gloves when handling debris or working with the soil.

Currently the regular Rosemont Preserve restoration day on Saturday, Feb. 8 is planned. Anyone participating should wear PPE (KN95+ face mask, gloves and goggles) and take measures to minimize disturbing ash and kicking it up into the air.