Buck Gully Reserve Hazardous Fuel Thinning and Reduction Project

The project proposes hazardous fuel reduction activities in and around the Buck Gully Reserve. Anticipated activities include the thinning and trimming of brush and shrubs; thinning and limbing of trees; canopy reduction; removal of dead and dying vegetation, shrubs, and trees; and recycling and removal of all biomass from the project site. The thinning, limbing, and canopy reduction of trees would meet the specific tree canopy spacing requirements outlined in Newport Beach Fire Department (NBFD) Fire Guideline G.01. Only hand tools and chainsaws would be utilized, and no ground disturbance activities (i.e., grading) would occur. Where needed, vegetation removal would be flush cut to the ground to maintain soil stability. Overall, the proposed fuel modification activities would bring the non-compliant hazard reduction zone into compliance with NBFD Fire Guideline G.01. The project also includes a robust educational component to keep residents informed about the purpose and outcomes of the project, and to encourage residents to implement risk mitigation activities.