Forest thinning project will reduce wildfire risk to Roslyn, Cle-Elum
OLYMPIA – May 12, 2022 – Washington State Parks will begin work to thin approximately 90 acres on the Bullfrog State Park Property near Cle Elum this month. The hired contractor will remove smaller, weaker and less fire tolerant trees to reduce fuel loads and promote fire tolerant species. The project will return the forest to historic site conditions and improve the health of remaining trees by reducing competition.
More information on this project is available at Forest Practices Permit #2707135, on the Washington Department of Natural Resources website.
- Logging operations are expected to begin in May and last four to eight weeks.
- The Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail may have intermittent closures during this time.
- The public should stay away from any active logging operation. Do not approach equipment operators! Follow all posted signs and warnings.
- Closures will be updated in the alerts section of the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail website. Please contact Olmstead Place State Park at (509) 925-1943 with questions.
Human suppression of wildfires has left many forests in eastern Washington with an overabundance of trees that increase the risk of catastrophic fires. This property sits within three miles of the cities of Cle Elum and Roslyn, adjacent to I-90 and in the wildland-urban interface of several homes.
News media contacts:
Amanda McCarthy, Communications Director, media@parks.wa.gov
David Cass, Agency Forester, (360) 386-2990
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About Washington State Parks
The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission manages more than 100 state parks and properties totaling approximately 120,000 acres. The Commission provides a variety of recreation opportunities for citizens and provides stewardship protection for a diverse array of natural, cultural and historic resources. State Parks’ statewide programs include long-distance trails, boating safety and winter recreation.
News release number: 22-025