Hillside Association of Berkeley

The Hillside Association of Berkeley (HAB) is an organization dedicated to preserving the unique nature and interests of the community in the Berkeley hills. It encompasses various groups, including the Berkeley FireSafe Council (BFSC), which plays a crucial role in its activities.

History

The Hillside Association was formed over 30 years ago with a focus on community preservation and protection. However, specific details about its formation date or early activities are not widely documented.

The Berkeley FireSafe Council

The Berkeley FireSafe Council is a key component of the Hillside Association of Berkeley. It is a community-based not-for-profit organization aimed at preventing catastrophic wildfires in the area. The Council's mission is essential due to the historical risk of wildfires in Berkeley, such as the 1923 Berkeley Fire and the 1991 Tunnel Fire, which were exacerbated by the presence of eucalyptus trees.

Activities and Objectives

The Berkeley FireSafe Council works on several fronts:

• Wildfire Prevention: The council focuses on fuel reduction and advocates for the removal of hazardous tree species, primarily eucalyptus, which constitutes a significant fire risk.
• Community Engagement: It organizes community events and volunteer opportunities to clean up and manage wildfire fuels in high-risk areas.
• Collaboration: BFSC collaborates with local organizations and government bodies to advance its mission. Past collaborations include work with Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory and UC Berkeley.

Impact

The efforts of the Hillside Association and the Berkeley FireSafe Council have led to improved fire safety awareness and mitigation efforts in the community. Despite these efforts, the risk of wildfires remains a significant concern, necessitating continued action to mitigate hazards.