FAQs

• 1. How were the treatment areas selected?

  Fuel treatment areas were selected based on recommendations from our Fire Department and the 2019 South Bear Creek Wildfire Mitigation Strategy. Areas were identified as priority for treatment based on existing fuels and proximity to critical infrastructure. For this project, critical infrastructure includes areas near the water treatment facility, and areas adjacent to residential homes.

• 2. Where will the work take place?

  Treatment Area 1: The forested area bordered by the Country Club West neighborhood and the South Bear Creek Baseball diamonds.

  Treatment Area 2: Located adjacent to the Aquatera Water Treatment Plant, specifically to the north of the facility. 

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• 3. What will the vegetation management work include?

  The vegetation management work will include:

  • Thinning dense vegetation
    • Removing selected trees or shrubs from an area to improve air circulation, reduce fuel loads, and create space between remaining vegetation
  • Removing dead or fire-hazard trees
    • Removing dead trees and downed vegetation to reduce the risk of wildfires by breaking up continuous fuels and improving ecosystem health. 
  • Pruning lower tree branches
    • Removing low hanging branches within 2 meters from the ground
    • Pruning branches to help create space between trees and shrubs, making it more difficult for fires to spread 

  • Mulching

    • Clearing surface vegetation using a mulcher (mechanical forestry equipment)
    • Mulchers are designed to break down vegetation into smaller pieces, accelerating decay
    • By clearing out dense underbrush and smaller trees, mulching can also reduce ladder fuels that allow fire to climb from the ground into the tree canopy

    The following photos contain before and after shots of what the vegetation management work is expected to look like.

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• 4. When will the work begin?

  The work is scheduled to commence on October 15, 2024 and is expected to be completed by the end of October, weather permitting.

• 5. What time of day will the work take place?

  Crews will be scheduled to work from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

• 6. How will this impact residents who live nearby the treatment areas?

  While we strive to minimize disruption, residents may notice some temporary changes during the project, including: 

  • Noise from equipment and machinery. 
  • Temporary access restrictions to certain areas and trails for safety reasons. 
  • Increased presence of workers and vehicles in the vicinity.

  The safety of residents and workers is our top priority. All activities will be conducted in accordance with safety guidelines and regulations. We ask that residents exercise caution around work areas and follow any posted signs or instructions from workers on-site.