SGVCC Farm Pepper Tree Removal and Fuel Reduction Project

The SGVCC Farm Pepper Tree Removal and Fuel Reduction Project, managed by the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation, focuses on the removal of up to 20 invasive Peruvian pepper trees at the Santa Fe Dam Recreational Area in Irwindale, California. The scope includes the removal of 17 trees adjacent to the west fence line and 3 trees within the SGVCC Farm. To ensure safety and professional execution, chainsaw operations are overseen by certified instructors from the Working on Fire Training Academy, who are former CAL FIRE firefighters. While tree removal is the primary focus, the project also includes light thinning around the nature center to reduce hazardous fuels, improve defensible space, and provide hands-on vegetation management training for 18 participants trained in chainsaw, pole saw, and weed wacker operations. Administrative details for solicitation 2026016198 indicate that the project is categorized under NAICS code 561730. Stump grinding is excluded from the initial phase and will be completed at a later date by SGVCC crews and a licensed arborist. The project has been granted a Notice of Exemption under CEQA Sections 15301 and 15304, as the activities are considered minor alterations and maintenance with no significant environmental impact. Jui Ing Chien serves as the primary point of contact for the project.