CLEAR - Fence Removal, Willow Creek Unit

Project proposes removal of some existing fencing in the Willow Creek unit at Sonoma Coast State Park to reduce the hazards the fencing poses to State Park staff, the public, and wildlife fleeing predation especially nocturnal animals who are particularly vulnerable to becoming trapped in barbed wire. The Willow Creek unit was acquired from logging and ranching landowners who utilized cross fencing for livestock or to prevent trespassing. Cross fencing offers little benefit within a park unit, and much of it across the district is in disrepair. State Parks Natural Resources staff will remove most metal T-post and barbed or mesh/panel wire fencing. Where fences are comprised of wooden posts with wire fencing, the wire will be removed and the posts may be left in place if deemed a cultural resource. Two or three segments of fence proposed for evaluation are wood posts with wood rails that appear to be from the State Parks era of ownership. Natural Resources staff mapped and prioritized most fencing in the Willow Creek Unit. Approximately 9 miles of fencing are proposed for removal.