MENDOCINO NATIONAL FOREST, Calif. – Mendocino National Forest officials have determined that, due to advanced decay in branches and trunks as well as recent failures and near misses, select sycamore trees are currently being removed in order to maintain public safety at the Red Bluff Recreation Area.

These trees are located in a very high use recreation area and pose a risk to the public that use the facilities.

“Public safety is our primary concern in this popular recreation area,” said Grindstone District Ranger Eduardo Olmedo. “Given the current condition of these trees, removal is the best way for us to protect our visitors from the potential hazards.”

Forest personnel have witnessed large branches falling from trees in the Sycamore Grove day use area.

A plant pathologist was asked to examine the trees multiple times and after a detailed inspection in 2015, it was determined that the trees pose a very high risk to public safety and should be removed as soon as possible.

Tree removal has already begun on site and is planned to continue through March, depending on weather.

The forest is in the process of locating replacement trees and once identified they will be planted as soon as weather permits.

If you have questions or comments, please contact the Grindstone Ranger District at 530-934-3316.