Joe Dodd recently completed a design for the Cedar Fire Historic Garden in Lakeside, and was recognized for his work at the dedication ceremony on October 24.
The site is located on a small “leftover” parcel that was set aside by the Lake Fire Protection District and adjacent to the Lakeside Fire Station.
The space includes interpretive elements, signage and artwork, along with native and fire-resistant plant material.
The main monument is a large granite spire that was locally sourced. The paving material leading up to the monument includes a historical timeline of San Diego County fire events of the past with the names and dates engraved into concrete pavers.
A circular seat wall provides the public and education groups a place to gather and view the monument, surrounding garden areas, and a large interactive map of the areas affected by the Cedar Fire.
This large-scale map was etched into the concrete paving and shows the origins of the fire and also the towns that were affected. Decorative boulders and stone were locally sourced and were donated by a local quarry.
A flagpole, flying a perennial red flag, anchors one corner of the site; it is symbolic of times under severe fire conditions.
The intricate railing was designed to represent young trees which is also symbolic of growth and healing after a major catastrophe.
A curved band of steel separates different paving areas and is representational of the two fire protection zones which are commonly used as safety guidelines for developments in fire-prone areas. At the terminus of the site is a reflection area featuring a large native oak and seating boulders. The site is ADA accessible.
The garden was created to provide a public space to honor and remember those affected by the 2003 Cedar Fire, while providing educational, interactive, and inspiring elements. The theme of this site is “Reflect, Reconnect & Remember” to honor the first responders, victims, and volunteers.
The garden project is a labor of love by members of the Lakeside Community. The Fire District is a committee member and a proud host of the project. The many donors of both public and private money as well as the thousands of dollars of in-kind contributions by many of local trades made the project possible.
The Cedar Fire is a 12-year-old story of tragedy and trial for Lakeside individuals and organizations alike. The rebuilding and recovery of a community that lost so much and that made this project possible is the “new” story to be told.
Supervisor Dianne Jacob, members from the Lakeside Fire District Board of Directors, Cedar Fire Monument Committee, firefighters, donors and supporters were on hand for the dedication at the Lakeside Fire Protection Office and Fire Station #2.
Joe was interviewed along with Andy Parr, Fire Chief and CEO of the Lakeside Fire Protection District, on WS Radio.com’s “Community Spotlight” segment. To hear the interview click the link below:
http://wsradio.com/110615-lakeside-fire-protection-district-salvation-army/
To view photos of the site and stay informed you can visit the Cedar Fire Monument Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/CedarFireMemorial/
Here are some informative websites regarding fire prevention and safety.
http://www.sandiego.gov/fire/pdf/brushpdf.pdf
http://www.rsf-fire.org/ordinances/ordinances.html
http://www.rsf-fire.org/assets/documents/ordinances/ordinances/At_a_Glance_Requirements.pdf
http://www.rsf-fire.org/assets/documents/ordinances/resources/PlantListBrochure.pdf
