By Cris Alarcon, InEDC Writer. (May 24, 2025)
PLACERVILLE, Calif. — Sierra Pacific Industries has agreed to pay more than $200,000 to settle federal claims related to the 2021 Cold Fire, which originated on the company’s property in El Dorado County and burned 29 acres, including parts of the Eldorado National Forest.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California, the fire ignited on January 18, 2021, in a timber slush pile that escaped containment during windy conditions.
“Our office will continue to hold individuals and corporations responsible for damages caused by wildfires,”
said Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith in a statement.
“Every fire impacting federal lands, no matter the size, is a priority.”
The settlement resolves the government’s claims but does not constitute a determination of liability.
Sierra Pacific Industries, based in Anderson, California, is one of the largest timber companies in the United States, owning and managing more than 2.4 million acres in California … , and Washington.
“These settlements are essential in … said Jason Kuiken, acting fore … Region.
Sierra Pacific Industries did not … following the announcement of the settlement.
The Cold Fire is one of several wildfires in recent years that have prompted legal and financial repercussions for companies operating in California’s fire-prone regions.
El Dorado County has been proactive in wildfire preparedness, with the Board of Supervisors updating the County Strategic Plan in 2022 to support the creation and maintenance of fire-adapted communities through a countywide wildfire protection strategy.
For more information on El Dorado County’s wildfire preparedness efforts, visit the Office of Wildfire Preparedness and Resilience.
