This restoration of this sierra mixed conifer forest will focus on planting trees native to the area in pre-fire conditions. Reforestation would prioritize planting shade intolerant species such as Jeffrey pine, ponderosa pine, sugar pine, Douglas fir, and incense cedar, over shade tolerant species such as white fir to re-establish forest structure prior to the exclusion of ecologically beneficial fire. Trees would be planted at approximately 130 trees per acre in differing planting arrangements including rows and clusters. Areas with potential for natural regeneration may be excluded from planting. All planted areas would have dead vegetation, including standing dead trees removed to reduce the fuel risk for future wildfire. All planted areas would be treated with herbicide application to reduce brush competition and similarly reduce hazardous fuel loading for future wildfires, thereby protecting the investment of time and funds spent on reforestation. Thinning may occur in certain areas to increase spacing and reduce the risk of wildfire spreading through mature trees.
Addressing the current condition and anticipated hazardous fuels is the first step towards allowing conifer forests to become reestablished. With approximately 1.3 million acres of forests burned, we need to put our energy into reforesting areas with a higher likelihood of success. Planting within this project areas will be monitored and maintained by private land managers for a minimum of 75 years. This type of management will ensure that planted trees have the best likelihood of survival, and that plantations can be cultivated to ensure a well stocked forest at densities that are less likely to carry a high intensity crown fire.
Wildlife species including the California Spotted owl, Northern Goshawk, Bald eagle, and Golden eagle, all require either old growth forests, or mature trees for nesting and/ or foraging. The amount of suitable old growth habitat is severely diminished. Several more megafires with no restorative action would leave the region devoid of habitat.
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