How does Sequoia National Park deal with fuels?
the Park recently released a “Hazard Fuel Reduction for East Fork Kaweah Developed Areas.” The objectives for this project “restoring fire to the surrounding ecosystem and providing for public and firefighter safety,” are the same as those expounded by the Forest Service for the Monument lands. The Park described its project as, “200-foot wide reduced fuel zone created at strategic locations around two developments.” They are not logging. They will hand pile and burn fuels on the project site. All larger trees and a number of smaller trees will remain on site, as will all dead and/or down logs greater than 8″ in diameter. Re-treatment of the area every 3-15 years will be required to maintain effectiveness.” The Park’s Decision also said, “Fire behavior of most serious concern is …a rapid flaming front of high intensity. Fire behavior models indicate that mostly smaller diameter surface and aerial fuels generate this fire behavior. Large diameter woody fuels in contact with the ground
