Goldspotted Oak Borer Management, Removals, and Treatments in San Bernardino Mountain Communities

The project addresses the invasive Goldspotted Oak Borer in seven mountain communities across San Bernardino and Riverside Counties, including Big Bear, Calimesa, Yucaipa, Crestline, Forest Falls, Oak Glen, and Wrightwood, targeting 21,971 acres for intervention. Approximately 244 heavily infested oak trees will be removed to prevent the spread of larvae during spring and summer flight seasons, while 62 high-value or minimally infested trees will be preserved through insecticide treatment. All tree removals occurring during nesting season require prior biological survey to ensure no active bird nests are present; removal is permitted only after confirmation that birds have fledged. Infested wood must be either chipped and hauled off-site using best management practices or tarped in place where access constrains transportation. The work is designed to reduce wildfire fuel loads and protect local oak populations without impacting healthy, mature, or scenic trees. The project complies with California Environmental Quality Act exemptions under §§15304 and 15308, and all activities adhere to environmental protection standards and biological best practices. No significant environmental impact is anticipated, and no harm to endangered species is permitted. The Inland Empire Resource Conservation District is the lead agency implementing this effort, funded by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, with Mandy Parkes serving as the primary point of contact. While no formal federal contract clauses, funding amounts, pricing details, or acquisition regulations apply, the project includes operational directives for arborists, biologist oversight, and wood handling protocols to ensure compliance with state environmental mandates. No packaging, labeling, bar-coding, or military standards are involved, and no federal representations, certifications, or evaluation factors are required as this is a locally administered environmental initiative. Acceptance occurs at each work site, with performance constrained by nesting seasons and access limitations, and all treatments and removals are carried out by licensed professionals under the district’s oversight.