Smoke may be seen coming from Vandenberg Air Force Base Wednesday as firefighters work to burn grass and vegetation at Purisima Point Beach.
The one-day burn of about 30 acres is scheduled to begin at around 8 a.m. and should wrap up by 6 p.m.
The goal, according to base officials, "is to increase the habitat for the Western Snowy Plover by re-contouring the sand dunes for more suitable nesting conditions while also reducing the risk of wildfire."
County officials are working with the base to minimize air quality impacts to surrounding communities and a portable air monitor will be set up at nearby Vandenberg Middle School to monitor air quality there.
Wednesday's prescribed burn is one of a handful set to take place through October 31.
