Berry Creek Rancheria Wildfire and Resilience Project, Berry Creek Cemetery Unit

The Berry Creek Rancheria Wildfire and Resilience Project, specifically the Berry Creek Cemetery Unit, is a restoration effort managed by the Butte County Resource Conservation District on a 10.8-acre culturally significant site in Butte County, California. The project aims to mitigate wildfire risks and restore native vegetation following the 2020 North Complex Fire. Key activities include light fuels management through weeding and mowing, ecological restoration involving seed collection and planting by Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) crews, and the execution of a low-intensity meadow burn during the fall. The scope also encompasses invasive plant removal and mechanical fuels reduction for pile burning. The project is subject to strict environmental and cultural compliance standards. This includes mandatory nesting bird surveys from February 1 to August 15, strict prohibitions on mechanized equipment and refueling within Watercourse and Lake Protection Zones, and slope restrictions for heavy equipment. A Tribal Botanist and cultural monitors must survey the site to protect rare plants and heritage resources. Additionally, the project requires adherence to CDFW protocols for wildlife such as fishers and gray wolves, and the Tribe must secure burn permits from the BCAQMD. The project is categorically exempt under CEQA guidelines as it involves minor land alterations.