Draft SNFPA Management Review and Recommendations

Compatibility with HFQLG Recovery Act

Key Findings

1. The ROD significantly limits the implementation of the HFQLG Pilot Project.
2. Opportunities exist to "harmonize" regional management direction with the Pilot Project to achieve a full and fair test of the project.
3. In the Pilot Project area, forests are directed to use S&Gs designed for SPLATs in areas that are shaped and located specifically for DFPZs. As a result, it is highly unlikely that these efforts will be successful in addressing the hazardous fuels situation.
4. Group selection is an important tool that needs to be fully tested within the Pilot Project for its contribution to a long term habitat management strategy across the Sierras.
5. The S&Gs permit full testing of individual tree selection as an uneven-aged silvicultural technique.
6. Standards for protecting northern goshawk, pacific fisher and marten in place prior to the SNFPA ROD would likely provide adequate protection for these species. They would also allow greater implementation of the resource management activities to be tested in the Pilot Project.
7. The ROD removed the objective of providing socio-economic benefit through timber and biomass production from the HFQLG forests (and others). This was a key component to be tested by the Pilot Project.
8. The concept of the Lassen/Plumas Administrative Study is consistent with the goals of the Pilot Project.

USDA Forest Service · Pacific Southwest Region