The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) invites the public to join them at an upcoming community meeting to learn more about their 20-Year Forest Health Strategic Plan, wildfire prevention, and forest health treatments.
When:          Monday, May 21, from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Where:          The Winthrop Barn, 51 N. Highway 20, Winthrop, WA 98862
Who:            Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz, Senator Brad Hawkins (R-East Wenatchee), DNR staff
The community meeting will feature presentations on the 20-Year Forest Health Strategic Plan and preparations for the upcoming fire season. There will also be an opportunity for attendees to ask questions, as well as get an update on the Virginia Ridge timber sale.
“Our forestland in the Methow Valley holds important significance to the community for its recreation, environmental, and economic value,” said Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz. “By taking steps to restore forest health, we increase natural wildfire resistance, protect the community, and ensure working forests provide benefits to the public now and in the future.
“This work must be done in partnership with the community. Community input and engagement is critical to the success of our forest health initiative. I’m looking forward to hearing from residents directly and discussing my vision for a collaborative approach to addressing our unhealthy forestland.”
The 20-Year Forest Health Plan – developed in collaboration with 33 agencies and organizations, including industry and environmental groups – provides a framework to restore 1.25 million acres of eastern Washington forestland to health. Forest improvement treatments strengthen forest resistance to wildfire, insect infestation, and disease.
More information is available at dnr.wa.gov/ForestHealthPlan.”