Gun-Toting Boozers at Preserve Pose Fire Risk

Councilman Bob Baker Tuesday displayed .22 targets, a bullet-riddled sign and empty gallon-jug of vodka found at the Richard and Donna O'Neill Nature Conservancy, warning trespassing in the deep forest could cause fires.

Straying from the paths also disturbs the wildlife the conservancy is meant to protect, Baker said.

Councilman Jim Dahl, a retired firefighter, warned that the forest in the preserve hasn't burned since 1928, and so is ripe for fire with tall canopies and dry underbrush.

"The last time San Clemente had a wildfire was 1976," Dahl said. "It destroyed 18 to 20 houses and damaged 100."

Baker pointed out that trespassing tickets can cost $400. City Manager George Scarborough said he would bring a discussion item to the city council to talk about how to reduce fire danger as the hot, dry summer months are upon the city.