Collaborative Fuels Reduction

About the Program

Category: Risk and Emergency Management (Best in Category)

Year: 2017

Boulder County is at risk for multiple types of natural disasters due to the topography and geographic features present in the county. Primary among the disaster risks for the county are the risks for wildfires and floods. The 2010 Four Mile Canyon Fire and 2013 Flood were devastating natural disasters in Boulder County’s recent history that caused widespread damage and destruction. As part of the recovery/mitigation efforts following these disasters, FEMA awarded Boulder County Parks & Open Space (POS) grant funding through the Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grant program and the Hazard Mitigation Grant Programs to decrease future hazards. A Colorado State Forest Service grant for Colorado Forest Restoration also provided money for fuels reduction projects that help mitigate wildfire risk. The capstone of the Collaborative Fuels Reduction project was 199 acres of treatment at Betasso Preserve – a property managed by Boulder County Parks & Open Space. Due to the steep slopes and inaccessible terrain, helicopters were used to lift trees which were marked for removal as part of the mitigation efforts. After 22 days of helicopter lifts and 36 days of whole-tree grinding; a total of 5,160 tons of trees were removed. In the event of wildfire, this treatment is intended to aid in protection of the Boulder Water Treatment Plant, the Betasso Homestead, and more than 200 homes within 2 miles of the property by creating a natural break in the forest canopy. The thinning project and fuel break will substantially decrease fire intensity and increase safe access for fire fighters during a wildfire. This project will provide lasting benefit to park visitors, residential homes surrounding the project areas, and will help ensure safe, clean drinking water for the citizens of Boulder.