Sacramento, California - With the Carr, Ferguson, Mendocino Complex, Whaleback and Natchez fires continuing to burn in Shasta County, Lassen County, Mariposa County, Mendocino County, and Del Norte County–not to mention a number of additional fires–California’s network of fairs is fulfilling a crucial role as staging areas for fire crews, and serving as evacuation centers for people and animals. The following fairgrounds are serving during the current spate of wildfires.

Mariposa County Fairgrounds and Exposition Center, Mariposa, CA: This is an evacuation center currently housing people and animals displaced by wildfire.

Tehama District Fairgrounds, Red Bluff, CA:  As many as 200 animals are being housed at this site, which is also serving as a fire camp.

Sonoma-Marin Fair, Petaluma, CA: Seventy goats are being sheltered at this animal evacuation center.

Shasta District Fair and Event Center, Anderson, CA: This fair is serving as a base camp for crews from CalFire, the National Guard and the California Conservation Corps.

Lassen County Fair, Susanville, CA: This is a fire camp supporting crews from CalFire, the US Forest Service, and the Bureau of Land Management.

Lake County Fair, Lakeport, CA: Utility crews responding to fires are being housed there.

This emergency service is yet another example of how California’s network of fairs partners with local communities. The fairs are much more than a place to congregate and celebrate. They are bonafide public assets; essential institutions that serve Californians in many important ways.