Sonora, Calif., (Dec. 2, 2014)…Community members are encouraged to participate in a Reforestation Open House from 4 to 6 p.m. on Dec. 16th at the Stanislaus National Forest Supervisor’s Office.
“This is an opportunity for people to learn about reforestation within the Rim Fire area,” states Maria Benech, Reforestation Interdisciplinary Team Leader. “We want to give the public a chance to ask questions and share ideas. It’s important for people to know why we are putting trees back on the landscape.”
Up to 30,000 to 40,000 acres burned by the fire could be re-planted beginning in the spring of 2017. Some areas will not be re-planted and this will create a mosaic pattern within the footprint of the fire.
Discussions will include the importance of re-planting the burned landscape, where to re-plant and at what percent re-planting may occur. Many species of wildlife use trees for roosting, nesting and foraging. By attending the open house, residents can learn about the connections between reforestation and wildlife habitat. Watershed health is another potential topic. Since 50% of the surface water in California flows from National Forest lands, this matter is important to all communities that reside in close proximity to the Forest. There is a connection between high quality drinking water and Forest health and the open house provides residents an opportunity to explore that link.
Large scale reforestation within the Rim Fire will commence once the Environmental Impact Statement has been completed and the Record of Decision has been signed. June of 2016 is the estimated completion date.
“This is the perfect opportunity for the public to ask questions and share concerns regarding reforestation,” says Jeanne Higgins, Forest Supervisor. “It’s important to the U.S. Forest Service to include the local community in our projects.”
Those seeking additional information on reforestation should contact the Rim Fire Public Affairs Officer at (209)-532-3671, ext. 259, for questions or to schedule a talk.
The Reforestation Open House will be held at 19777 Greenley Road in Sonora, CA.
