The Lassen National Forest began mastication treatments within the vicinity of the Canyon Dam boat launch, on the south end of Lake Almanor, on December 4th. Mastication involves reducing the size of forest vegetation and downed material by grinding, shredding, chunking, or chopping material.
This project is scheduled to be completed by March 1st. There will be a temporary trail closure of approximately 1.5 miles of the Lake Almanor Recreation Trail in the Canyon Dam area.
During operations, the northern parking lot will be closed to pedestrian and vehicular traffic. Operations should not impact public access to the boat launch; however, visitors are advised to be aware of extra vehicle traffic and heavy equipment. Please proceed with caution as you travel the road toward the ramp.
Visitors wanting to hike the Lake Almanor Recreation Trail may access it at USFS Dyer View or PG&E Rocky Point.
Masticating equipment can create safety concerns for the public as equipment can throw chipped material at high rates of speed and long distances. The public is asked to stay away from equipment during operating hours.
“This project is the next step prior to reforestation efforts and restoring recreation opportunities in the Canyon Dam area,” says Russell Nickerson, District Ranger of the Almanor Ranger District.
For additional questions on this ongoing project, you can reach the Almanor Ranger District office at 530-258-2141. Contact your local Ranger District office for the most recent conditions on roads, trails, and developed recreation sites.
