The pilot project focuses on reducing the threat of catastrophic wildfire. These thinned zones would break up the continuity of fuel beds and fires ladders which would force flames down out of the crowns of the trees so that firefighters would have a chance to control them. Harvest by individual tree and group selection of intermediate-size timber will reduce fuel ladders while providing wood to consumers. Larger trees will be left alone. At the same time, the QLG plan provides stringent protections to sensitive roadless and wilderness areas and riparian habitats.
All activities are to be carried out in compliance with all applicable Fedral environmental laws.
This is a pilot project and, as such, is attempting solutions that are experimental and may need to be refined as more data comes in. A monitoring program will be done to determine the effectiveness of the project. The Quincy Library Group has accomplished some remarkable feats, not the least of which is providing a model for cooperative local input into forest issues. Mike De Lasaux, UC Cooperative Extension Forester for the area, believes it's not that easy. There's no recipe for this.