22-003 - Purgatoire and Cucharas Watersheds Community Stewardship & Forest Health Project

The project area consists of two National Forest roads, NFSR 422 (provides access to Bear and Blue Lakes Campgrounds) located 3.7 miles south of Cuchara, CO in Huerfano County, and NFSR 34 (provides access Purgatoire Campground) located 7.6 miles north of Stonewall, CO. Both roads are accessed from CO Highway 12, with approximately, 12.2 miles separating the two project locations. The forest type varies from aspen to ponderosa pine, mixed-conifer, and spruce-fir communities. The project will create 13.3 acres of shaded fuel break at each project area (both roads). This involves cutting small diameter conifer, standing and fallen dead material. Retained conifers will be limbed to 6 feet. Slash will either be chipped or masticated on site, or alternatively, burn piles may be constructed. If using chipping/masticating, the contractor will also be responsible for piles created by volunteer crews assisting on 5.4 acres of light treatment, or roughly 660 linear feet of road. This project will require some hand work because of steep slopes and rocky terrain, but contractors may choose to use mechanical equipment where feasible. Contractors need to be aware that operations will occur in a popular recreation area, and be diligent for potential safety issues associated with traffic and onlookers.