FIGHTING FOR THE FOREST

Local group attempts to turn state-run Jackson Forest into a redwood preserve

FORT BRAGG >> Driving the 25-mile, winding pass known as California Highway 20, you could be excused for missing the weatherworn, wooden sign welcoming you into — and through — Jackson State Demonstration Forest.

After all, the towering redwood trees dappling the sunlight over the road and the misty fog that clings to every curve is what most drivers are there for, as they head toward the craggy cliffs of the Mendocino coastline.

JDSF — or just “Jackson,” as it’s known locally — extends for a staggering 48,000 acres beyond that stretch of road. Nestled between the small mountain town of Willits and the coastal city of Fort Bragg, it is home to innumerable secondgrowth and old-growth redwoods, rare species of animals and birds, several dozen campsites, waterfalls and mossy paths to hike, cycle, ride and motor through.

But JDSF is also what’s known as a working forest, and despite the reputation it has among locals as a haven of natural wonders — the state says it needs to earn its keep.

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (also known as Cal Fire) operates nine Demonstration State Forests in the state, totaling around 72,000 acres. JDSF alone makes up approximately two-thirds of that.

According to CalFire’s website, the state’s nine demonstration forests grow approximately 75 million board feet of timber annually and harvest an average of 20 million board feet each year — enough to build 12,500 single-family homes. CalFire has recently announced there will be six new timber harvest plans on

ROBIN EPLEY — ADVOCATE-NEWS JP O’Brien, a climatologist living in Fort Bragg, and a member of the Mendocino Trail Stewards, looks up at a second-growth redwood tree, standing near the area where a large-scale timber harvest is planned by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection later this year.