All of us can see and feel the impacts of a changing climate, whether we’re on the “wet” side of the state or across the Cascades in the alpine forests. As we’ve seen wildfire danger grow on the Olympic Peninsula, the Foundation has been working with experts to help us determine how we manage our landscape for long-term health.
Some of the many considerations include:
- Drought-resistant plants and trees that are native to our region of the state.
- Tree and plant placement and spacing to avoid competition for precious resources, like water, sunlight and shade.
- Shade barriers for creeks to protect salmon spawning and habitat, such as trees and riparian vegetation.
As we discussed in our last newsletter, we are working on thinning our overstocked tree stands to lessen disease and competition for water and sunlight. The work also makes our forestlands more wildfire resistant and resilient. And, we continue to work on our shade barriers and plants to protect our creeks that are home to healthy salmon runs.
Want to learn more about our restoration work? Feel free to reach out with questions or to volunteer with us.
– Jeff Wirtz, Vice President