Mount Zion Demonstration State Forest Lookout and Hazard Tree Removal

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection is preparing to conduct selective tree removal within the Mount Zion Demonstration State Forest, a 164-acre area located one mile south of Pine Grove in Amador County. The forest is primarily composed of Sierra mixed conifer species including ponderosa pine, sugar pine, white fir, Douglas-fir, incense cedar, and California black oak, with scattered chaparral zones dominated by manzanita and chamise. The project aims to eliminate trees that obstruct critical lines of sight from the active fire lookout tower or pose a threat to life and property, ensuring the safety and operational effectiveness of the facility. The forest also contains a Chief Officer residence and public access features such as a parking area and trail network, which will remain open during operations. Tree removal will be carried out by hand crews using chainsaws, focusing only on identified hazard or visibility-obstructing trees rather than broad-scale clearing. Disposal methods will include pile burning, chipping, or hauling material off-site for non-commercial purposes, minimizing environmental impact. All work is planned in alignment with forest management and fire prevention objectives, with no commercial timber harvesting intended. The project is forecasted for future contracting, with Megan Scheeline, Unit Forester, serving as the primary point of contact for further information.