Mount Crossman Community Fuel Break

The Mount Crossman Community Fuel Break project, managed by the Amador Resource Conservation District and funded via a CalFire CCI Fire Prevention Grant, involves the construction of a 1.4-mile shaded fuel break across approximately 85 acres in Amador County, California. Located on prominent ridges north of Buckhorn, the project aims to create a fuel break 400 to 500 feet wide to protect the communities of Buckhorn and Pioneer, as well as the Mokelumne River watershed, from catastrophic wildfire. The scope of work includes the removal of 1,275 tons of biomass over a 50-day performance period using mechanical mastication, hand thinning, chipping, pruning, and the application of herbicides. The project is governed by a Notice of Exemption filed on July 25, 2025, qualifying it for a categorical exemption under 14 CCR Section 15304 for minor alterations to land. Key operational requirements include securing Right-of-Entry agreements from private landowners and adhering to specific environmental protections, such as a 15-foot buffer around intermittent watercourses and compliance with California Department of Pesticide Regulation standards. Necessary permits include an Amador County Road Encroachment Permit for work near Silver Point Drive and potential permits from the USACE and local air districts. The project is designed for ongoing maintenance in perpetuity to ensure long-term fire safety and emergency response access.