CalVTP Field Training: Healdsburg Open Space/Community Fuels Reduction Project

Thursday, April 13, 2023 10:00am to 3:00pm in Healdsburg, California

This was an opportunity to learn about how the Healdsburg Open Space and Community Fuels Reduction Project is using the CalVTP to facilitate a vegetation management and fuels reduction program. 

This field workshop highlighted how the City of Healdsburg Fire Department is working with Foresters and local operators to implement fuels treatments in their community. Participants improved their understanding of how to use the CalVTP as part of a vegetation management and fuels reduction strategy and learned how to design and implement other community fire safety projects.  

This intermediate-level training focused on the complexities associated with successfully permitting the Healdsburg Open Space and Community Fuels Reduction Project, located on Healdsburg Ridge in the heart of the WUI in Healdsburg, California. Attendees learned about the background and context of project, which fuels reduction and mechanical treatments were used for fuels mitigation, and how this project contributes to fuels and vegetation management at the wildland urban interface. 

Presenters discussed project-specific environmental permitting process alternatives and challenges. In addition to a tour of multiple vegetation treatment types (contrasting with no treatment controls), presenters addressed the challenges of community and stakeholder engagement. The event featured varying vegetation types and treatments including oak woodland and chaparral.

Trainers

Lance MacDonald, Division Chief and Fire Marshal, City of Healdsburg Fire Department

Jacob Harrower, Forester and Owner of Frontier Resource Management  

Eric Dickie, Eric Dickie Roadbuilding