Modoc Wildland Urban Interface Fuels Reduction Project-Phase 3 Countywide Defensible Space Program

The Modoc Wildland Urban Interface Fuels Reduction Project—Phase 3 Countywide Defensible Space Program is a continuation of a long-standing initiative led by the Modoc Fire Safe Council since 2004, administered by the Modoc Resource Conservation District to reduce wildfire risks across Modoc County. This no-cost program targets residential properties within Wildland-Urban Interface areas, treating approximately 50 acres to establish up to 100 feet of defensible space around habitable structures. Work includes removing ladder fuels, trimming vegetation, and disposing of flammable debris to slow wildfire spread, reduce flame intensity, and improve emergency responder access and safety. The program benefits property owners and residents throughout the county as well as local and regional fire agencies. Implementation is funded through the Sierra Nevada Conservancy Wildfire and Forest Resilience Grant Program and operates under a CEQA categorical exemption per Section 15304(i), Class 4, which certifies the work involves minor land alterations with no significant environmental impact, no disturbance to sensitive habitats, and no expansion of existing uses. The project is performed on-site at multiple WUI communities including Alturas, Adin, Canby, Cedarville, Davis Creek, Eagleville, Fort Bidwell, Lake City, Likely, Lookout, and New Pine Creek. Acceptance is managed by the Modoc Resource Conservation District in Alturas, with compliance verified against CEQA guidelines rather than formal federal standards. There is no competitive solicitation or evaluation process; award is based on grant eligibility and environmental exemption status. No contract value is specified, as the program provides services at no cost to participants. There are no designated contracting officers, contracting officer’s representatives, or formal invoicing procedures. The primary point of contact is Michael Colbert, Projects Manager, reachable via phone and email. No formal contract clauses, representations, certifications, packaging requirements, or delivery schedules are documented, reflecting the program’s nature as a grant-funded, non-commercial, community-based fuels reduction effort focused on wildfire resilience and public safety.