Angels Camp, CA — Fire officials are asking motherlode residents to begin clearing around their homes in preparation of the upcoming fire season.

A wet, rainy winter has brought a healthy growth of vegetation to the area and fire officials are concerned. A California Department of Forestry spokesman says the heavy precipitation will keep the grass and trees moist through the early summer months, but once it dries out, it could be a handful for firefighters.

The CDF is gearing up for what it expects to be a very busy season this year. A new law went into effect in January that requires homeowners to clear a 100 foot defensible space around their homes, although officials say they won´t strictly enforce that law this year.