Juniper Thinning Project Begins on Crooked River National Grassland to Combat Wildfire Risks

The Ochoco National Forest has launched a juniper thinning project on the Crooked River National Grassland as part of its Wildfire Crisis Strategy. This initiative is intended to significantly reduce wildfire risks and restore the health of the local ecosystem affected by century-long fire suppression and poor forest management practices. The thinning project will help manage the overabundance of juniper trees, which have proliferated in the absence of regular fire cycles. Acknowledging the historical use of fire by Indigenous peoples, the project aims to reinstate some of these beneficial practices. In doing so, it seeks to enhance biodiversity, improve wildlife habitats, and decrease the likelihood of severe wildfires in the area.

The initiative is part of a broader effort to adapt land management strategies that reflect contemporary ecological understanding. Community engagement and academic partnerships are expected to play a crucial role in the project’s implementation and success. Ultimately, this strategic approach not only addresses immediate wildfire threats but also contributes to the long-term ecological health of the region.