The Sierra and Sequoia national forests released a finding of no significant impact (FONSI) for the Sequoia and Sierra national forests to implement an ambitious prescribed fire project.
A Department of Agriculture press release indicates, “The project aims to reduce wildfire risk, protect communities, and restore forest health through the strategic use of prescribed fire as an active management tool.”
The project area includes approximately 2.4 million acres across both forests:
- 811,000 acres on the Sequoia National Forest.
- 1.3 million acres on the Sierra National Forest.
- 328,000 acres within the Giant Sequoia National Monument.
The FONSI authorizes a significant expansion of prescribed fire operations in California. For example, the Sierra National Forest, which has historically treated 3,000-4,000 acres per year, can now implement up to 10,000 acres annually, or 50,000 acres over five years.
The decision includes land in designated wilderness areas where mechanical thinning is prohibited.
