Shasta-Trinity National Forest

News Release

US Forest Service

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) Work:
Helimulching at Chappie-Shasta OHV Area

REDDING, Calif. (November 18, 2008) – In 2008, the Shasta-Trinity National Forest experienced 246 fires involving approximately 207,000 acres. As soon as it is safe to do so following a wildfire greater than 300 acres (less if significant resources are affected), the Forest Service initiates a process called Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) to help the burned landscape return to a productive forested state. One of the restoration activities the Shasta-Trinity has undertaken in some areas involves mulching to control erosion by helicopter, known as helimulching.

WHAT: Helimulching in progress at Chappie-Shasta OHV Area located 10 miles northwest of Redding off of Shasta Dam Boulevard. Photo, video and interview opportunities.

WHO: Forest Service employees will be on hand to explain the helimulching process as well as speak to the BAER program and activities elsewhere on the forest. Contractors conducting the helimulching will be handling operations.

WHEN: Thursday, November 20, 2008 10 a.m.

WHERE: Meet at 10 a.m. at the Shasta Dam Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) parking lot next to the security gate.

Address is 16349 Shasta Dam Boulevard, Shasta Lake, CA 96019

We will provide press kits and explain the photo, video and interview opportunities available at two locations once we enter the area below. Opportunities for close-in shots may be possible for those with appropriate clothing (nomex, hard hats and gloves) and training.

Anyone planning to attend must present press credentials and photo ID for security purposes. Please contact Acting Public Affairs Officer Gwen Ernst-Ulrich at (530) 226-2494 or cell (530) 605-5365 with questions.

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