Wildfires in San Diego County have threatened residents and property as firefighters work to control blazes. But, aside from large amounts of smoke and a few close calls, avocado growers in Fallbrook have largely avoided damage from the fires.“The fire came close to our groves, to within about about 50 feet, but it didn't burn our groves,” said J.R. McDaniel of McDaniel Fruit Company. “It's still pretty warm out, and there's always the possibility of more fire, but there's currently no danger for us.” Production was affected for a few days, when thick smoke and heat halted harvesting and packing for part of the day, but McDaniel noted that they haven't been significantly affected as a result of wildfires.
J.C. Iamurri, owner of Vista Deluz Ranch, which is about six miles north of Fallbrook, also reported that his groves were spared from any damage. While Vista Deluz, like McDaniel Fruit, had to deal with thick smoke, avocado production wasn't hampered.
“We are very fortunate,” said Iamurri. “It's still a bad time for fires, so we're vigilant and keeping our eyes open, but we dodged a bullet right now because if the fire had gotten through to us it would have damaged us for a long time.”