Roadside Fuels Reduction in Tree Stand Along Highway 16 at County Rd 42

This fuels reduction project is part of a series of roadside vegetation reduction projects throughout the Ca pay Valley to protect Highway 16 as an evacuation route and access point during wildfire events. The project consists of mechanical handwork (chainsaws and loppers) and chipping in a roadside section of overgrown vegetation primarily consisting of mature non-native cypress trees. In subsequent years, maintenance at the site may occur. The project footprint is approximately 0.25 acres along Highway 16 across two parcels of .private property. Overgrown vegetation too close to the highway poses a risk to the town of Rumsey and the larger Ca pay Valley region, as overgrown vegetation can burn and fall into the roadway limiting access or evacuation. Reducing fuels in project footprint along the highway will reduce the likelihood of catastrophic wildfire. Thinning and reducing ladder fuels along this section of Highway 16 will be performed by a licensed contractor with biological and botanical monitoring conducted by Yolo County Resource Conservation District. Felling of trees will be limited to trees smaller than twelve (12) inches in diameter at breast height (DBH). There are native valley oaks on site that will be left in place. Stumps of cut trees will remain in the ground to minimize soil disturbance. The project entails mechanical thinning of roadside vegetation of non-native highly flammable vegetation. Mechanical treatments can benefit ecosystems by reducing the likelihood of catastrophic wildfires, maintaining and restoring healthy ecosystems, and protecting human communities. A Qualified Biologist with experience in conducting planning-level and species-specific surveys in the area, conducted a biological reconnaissance survey at the project site. Based on the results of the biological survey of both units, the project has been designed so it will not cause significant adverse impact to special status species with likelihood to occur near the project site. Work may occur during nesting bird season. If work commences during nesting bird season (February 1st to September 15th) the project area will be surveyed for nesting birds by a qualified biologist, no more than one week before operations. If nesting birds are located, the RCD will develop measures that avoid impacts and are consistent with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.