Multi-party Monitoring Plan for Burnt Valley and Orient Projects

Goals of Monitoring Plan

The objective of both Burnt Valley and Orient projects are to reduce wildfire risk to these communities, by physical removal of excess fuels on nearby National Forest. For the fuel reduction projects on the National Forest we will use implementation and effectiveness monitoring.

Implementation monitoring: We will answer the question: Was the fuel reduction project implemented as prescribed by the analysis and decision document? After site preparation and fuel treatment The Lands Council, along with the Coalition and interested local residents, will conduct surveys to answer the following questions.

• What is the final basal area at random plots through the project area
• Were snag requirements met
• Was slash disposed of appropriately
• Was there any damage to soils or retained vegetation
• Were trees larger than the prescription removed
• Was prescribed burning done within the parameters of the prescription

Effectiveness monitoring: We will answer these questions:

• Did the two projects change the fuel model and therefore reduce fire risk.
• Do the location of the projects enhance community wildfire protection and will they reduce the likelihood of carrying a crown fire.
• Was the contractor able to implement the project in logical and cost effective manner.
• Is further work needed to reach project goals or remedy unexpected damage
• Were there any unforeseen consequences of the project.
• Was the project completed within budget

A written Report will be delivered to the Colville National Forest and the Northeast Washington Forestry Coalition for review and discussion and for use in adaptive management for future fuels reduction WUI projects.

Mike Petersen

Executive Director – The Lands Council