The project is situated within the 2022 Castle Fire (SQF Complex) burn scar, which affected approximately 174,000 acres, leaving the area covered in hazardous, severely burned trees. Historic flooding in early 2023 led to increased erosion and reduced stability of the standing hazards. Years of drought, wildfire, and extreme weather have led to numerous fallen trees, indicating the danger presented by the remaining dead and dying trees along the transportation corridors.
The project will address hazardous fuels along 10.27 project miles, targeting areas with near 100% mortality. It is estimated that 7,948 tons of non-merchantable material will be removed from 460 acres. Phase I involves hazard tree removal along County M216 (Redwood Drive and Alder Drive) and Forest Service Road 20S03 (Fox Farm Road).
Much of the project area is encumbered by Limited Operating Periods (LOPs) for the protection of Pacific fisher and California spotted owl (CSO)– as shown on the draft map for the project. There is an eight-acre unit that must be treated by hand after the CSO LOP ends on August 15th. The LOP for the fisher ends on June 30th and work can commence in those areas on July 1st. Tulare County is working with the Forest Service to determine whether any LOP areas may be adjusted based on updated surveys.
This project has variable terrain and work restrictions will be implemented on steeper slopes as follows:
Slopes –
0 to 35% - Mechanical operations may occur for the felling and yarding of hazard trees. Machine piles will be built to consolidate residual material that is greater than 3-inches in diameter and 3-feet in length.
35 to 60% - Hazard trees will be hand felled, and cable winched (end-lined) to the roadside for removal. In these areas, residual material will be piled by hand, fire-lined, and covered.
60% and greater – Hazard trees will be hand felled, and end-lined to the roadside for removal. Residual material will be lopped and scattered to a height no greater than 18” from the ground.
Note* The maximum end-lining distance will be 150-feet slope distance. Trees shall be directionally felled to promote safe and efficient removal, and protection of resources.