Klotz Cemetery Project

The Klotz Cemetery Project aims to preserve and protect a historically significant cemetery located within the Noble Demonstration State Forest managed by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. Work will be limited to minimal vegetation control conducted by hand crews or through the use of a masticator and chipper, targeting only sapling to pole-sized trees and shrubs encroaching on the cemetery grounds. Vegetation removal will occur only after the exemption is accepted and never during saturated soil conditions. Within the cemetery boundaries, the only activity permitted is the manual removal of minor vinca, while a 15 to 20-foot buffer zone surrounding the fence will be cleared using hand crews and mechanical equipment. All wood chips produced will be piled for use in creating pathways within the cemetery or distributed as ground cover outside its perimeter. Following vegetation management, a ground penetrating radar survey covering less than one acre will be performed to identify potential unmarked graves both within and immediately outside the cemetery boundaries. A Cal Fire archaeologist will be present at all times during project activities to ensure cultural and historical integrity is maintained. The project is forecasted to be posted on July 13, 2026, and all operations will be overseen by Senior Archaeologist Justin Rohde, with coordination and compliance handled through the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. No major construction, heavy machinery, or expansive clearing is planned, reflecting a careful balance between land management and historic preservation.