State-federal effort ID’s forest thinning priorities in NV

RENO, Nev. — Ten areas in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest in Nevada have been selected as top priorities for projects to combat damage from insects and disease that increases the wildfire risk.

Plans under the state-federal effort announced this week include forest thinning to reduce the risk of insect infestation or disease, and to remove dead and dying trees.

In response to a provision in a new farm bill passed by Congress, Gov. Brian Sandoval urged U.S. Forest Service chief Tom Tidwell to designate the 10 areas for what officials call “forest health projects.”

Nevada State Forester Pete Anderson says the projects would “greatly reduce” the risk of severe wildfire to nearby communities.

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The priority areas include the Lee Canyon, Deer Creek and Kyle Canyon watersheds in Clark County, and the Hidden Valley-Steamboat and Franktown-Frontal Washoe Lake watersheds in Washoe County.

Other areas targeted are the West Fork Pine Creek-Jarbidge River and Thomas Creek-Lamoille Creek watersheds in Elko County, and the Gilford Creek-Duck Creek, Murray Creek and Siegel Creek-Spring Valley Creek watersheds in White Pine County.

The Alkali Creek watershed in Humboldt County and the Clear Creek watershed in Carson City and Douglas County are the others.