Aerial Surveys Detect Tree Mortality -- March Results

Southern California Hazardous Fuels Rehabilitation and Restoration

Aerial Surveys Detect Tree Mortality -- March Results

USDA Forest Service, State and Private Forestry -- Forest Health Protection

The Forest Health Protection Program is conducting quarterly aerial surveys to monitor new tree mortality in southern California. In March 2004, the program completed its first quarter flight. Additional surveys for 2004 will be flown in June, September, and December. Data analysis is available one month after each flight.

The surveys are being conducted on the San Bernardino, Cleveland, Angeles, and Los Padres National Forests, as well as on forested state and private lands in southern California. In order to determine whether the mortality is spreading, the surveys will also include the Inyo and Sequoia National Forests.

Each aerial survey identifies new mortality that has occurred since the last survey. The survey data is used to help determine priorities for fuel reduction, reforestation, and restoration work. Data on mortality volume is also used by government and industry to develop utilization markets for the dead trees.

The March 2004 flight results showed minimal amounts of new mortality. However, mortality is expected to increase later in the year as bark beetles become more active. Low precipitation (two-thirds of normal as of spring 2004) and extreme tree density will continue to provide favorable conditions to bark beetles.

Contact Information: Lisa Fischer, Remote Sensing Program Manager, (916) 454-0803.

Pacific Southwest Region

Southern California Hazardous Fuels Rehabilitation and Restoration

Aerial Surveys Detect Tree Mortality -- March Results

Success Stories

Home