Inyo National Forest Seeks Input for Eastern Sierra Fire Restoration and Maintenance Project

The Inyo National Forest is seeking input on the proposed Eastern Sierra Fire Restoration and Maintenance Project. The purpose of this project is to restore natural fire regimes by reintroducing fire in forest ecosystems. Prescribed fire would be used to restore critical ecological processes to their natural range of variability, to improve forest health, protect watershed quality, enhance diversity and wildlife habitat, foster and protect old forests, reduce negative effects to air quality during wildfires, and reduce the threat of severe wildfire effects on adjacent communities. This project is consistent with the direction of the Inyo National Forest Land Resource Management Plan (USDA 2019).

Current conditions pose a threat of large wildfires that could impact local communities. This project will reduce tree densities, resulting in conditions less conducive to high severity wildfire. Prescribed fire, thinning, mowing, and prescribed fire control line construction are among the tools that would be used to restore more natural fire regimes.

Comments may be mailed to the Inyo National Forest, Attn: Eastern Sierra Fire Project, 351 Pacu Lane, Suite 200, Bishop CA 93514. Please submit electronic comments on the project website, at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=56291. On the right side of that website, click on “Comment/Object on Project” in the “Get Connected” box. You can type your comment directly in the website or attach an electronic file. Names and addresses of those who comment will be considered part of the public record on this proposed action and will be available for public inspection. Please submit comments prior to January 6, 2020.