Roadside Tree Stand Thinning-Rumsey

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. The project footprint is approximately 1.25 acres, or about half a mile along Highway 16 under the PG&E powerlines. Vegetation in the project footprint consists of nonnative cypress trees that have been topped by PG&E to prevent treetops from brushing against powerlines. Topping has caused the trees to degrade or die, making them significant fire hazard risks along Highway 16 and a potential ignition source for wildfire from passing cars. Overgrown vegetation too close to the highway poses a risk to the towns of Guinda/Rumsey and the larger Capay 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 and protect a vital evacuation route. Thinning and reducing ladder fuels along this section of Highway 16 will be performed by a licensed contractor or conservation corps crews, with biological and botanical monitoring conducted by Yolo County Resource Conservation District. In subsequent years, activities may occur to maintain the fuel break and ensure long-term management objectives are met.(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. An RCD Qualified Biologist conducted biological and botanical surveys 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 that may occur near the project site. 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.