Telecommunications project approved for Big Signal Peak

Upper Lake District Ranger Frank Aebly issued a communications use lease for the Big Signal Peak communication site project in Mendocino County on the Mendocino National Forest on Dec. 24. This lease allows the installation of an additional wireless communications tower at an existing telecommunication site on National Forest System lands.

Forest Engineer Shannon Pozas said, “This project will contribute to the existing telecommunications infrastructure on Big Signal that is an integral part of the agency’s goal of providing quality communication access to all Americans.”

The project is located approximately 18 miles northeast of Willits, California and is adjacent to the Sanhedrin Wilderness. The telecommunications services provided at this site will contribute to the safety of the surrounding communities. The Mendocino National Forest worked in collaboration with Mendocino County Emergency Services to reach a solution to provide this communications site while not interfering with existing county emergency operations and maintenance.

Mendocino Forest Supervisor Ann Carlson added, “Issuing this lease will bring important internet services to rural communities, like Covelo and Laytonville, during a time when telework and distance learning for families is ever more important due to the COVID-19 pandemic.” Project implementation may occur immediately.