Located on the North Slope of the Uinta Mountains in Summit County, this is the third phase of the larger Anadarko project. This phase of the proposed project will use prescribed fire and mechanical treatments to improve big game habitat, restore aspen ecosystems, increase forest health, reduce hazardous fuel loads, and decrease the risk of catastrophic wildfire. The project area is generally found in the Little West Fork of Blacks Fork. The project area is high elevation, generally above 9,000ft. The area has been significantly impacted by the past mountain pine beetle epidemic that resulted in 60-90% mortality of lodgepole pines. The dead trees have increased the fuel loading, thereby increasing the risk of high-intensity wildfire. The project will have challenges associated with working at high elevation. The survey season is relatively short. Significant portions of the project area are expected to be snow free by June. Early fall snow may impact the project area by September (hopefully later). Occasional lightening and associated weather are also expected during the summer months. Areas of dead/down timber may also be encountered. Crew safety is a top priority to the Forest and DWR and areas of safety concern should be avoided and adequately documented in the reporting efforts (GIS and report).
