Mama Tree Sit-In

Mama Tree, a redwood over 200 years old and wider than most vehicles (72”) is slated to be felled in the coming weeks. This ancient giant grows here along our coastal communities, less than 10 minutes drive inland from Caspar. (Take logging road 500 inland past the intersection with logging road 600 to mile marker 1.5; follow the trail south approximately 15 yards.)

An avid hiker on the many Jackson State Forest Trails, I know such old trees are extremely rare in our forest. Most of the trees I see are under 70 years old.

As an MBA who worked for a Fortune 100 company, I understand the need to meet financial expectations. The state forest is facing declining tree growth from climate change and is going against their original guidance to cut only trees under 48” wide.

Is there a balance that can be found that would save Mama tree and the few remaining ancient trees that grow here along the trails of the western section of the forest?

As I write, one man is currently living in Mama tree to save her. The Trail Stewards have made a proposal for a reserve. I hope that Jackson State Forest will reconsider felling Mama tree and other giants like her who grace our trails.

Further information can be found by following mama.tree. mendo on Instagram and at mendocinotrailstewards.org or emailing mama.tree.mendo@ gmail.com.

I hope we can do better for the few ancient trees remaining among us.

— Lisa Carrillo, homeowner,

Fort Bragg