North Bay Forest Improvement Program - Rancho Otranto

The North Bay Forest Improvement Program - Rancho Otranto is a forest management project spanning 20 acres in St. Helena, California, focused on enhancing forest health and reducing wildfire risk within a mixed conifer and hardwood ecosystem. The work includes the removal of small trees measuring 4 to 8 inches in diameter, pruning of lower branches up to 8 feet above ground, and processing the resulting woody debris through mastication and chipping to create fuel-reducing mulch. The project area features a diverse range of native vegetation including California bay laurel, manzanita, various oak species, and resprouting shrubs, all of which are targeted for treatment to promote ecological resilience and reduce hazardous fuel loads. All activities are designed to align with land stewardship goals while preserving the natural structure of the forest. The project is administered by the Napa County Resource Conservation District, with Danielle Ashton serving as the primary point of contact for inquiries and coordination. The landowner, Amy Garden, is also involved in the project’s oversight. Although the solicitation is currently listed as a forecast with no formal solicitation number or set-aside classification, the project is scheduled for implementation following the posted date of June 4, 2026. Work is to be performed on private land within zip code 94574, and all operations will be conducted with environmental sensitivity to protect the surrounding natural resources. Further details and documentation can be accessed through the provided link to the CEQA Net database.