Washington State Parks: Fields Spring State Park To Undergo Fall Forest Health Project

Press release from Washington State Parks:

September 22, 2021

Forest thinning work will reduce tree disease, wildfire risk.

OLYMPIA – Sept. 22, 2021 – Washington State Parks will conduct forest thinning at Fields Spring State Park beginning this fall. The project will reduce wildfire risk and improve the health of the park’s forests. 

A contractor has been hired to thin approximately 300 acres south of US Highway 129 within the park. Removal of trees will reduce wildfire risk within the park and improve the health of the remaining trees. 

In addition to heightened wildfire fuel loads, Fields Spring has seen an increase in forest pests and tree diseases that threaten the health of remaining trees.

Project Details:

Because Fields Spring State Park attracts winter recreationists - sledders, cross-country skiers and snowshoers - closure updates will be posted periodically on State Parks’ Winter Recreation Twitter feed: @WAStatePks_WNTR

Learn more about our state’s forest health strategy for eastern Washington.

News media contacts:

David Cass, Agency Forester (360) 386-2990 David.Cass@parks.wa.govMeryl Lassen, Communications Consultant media@parks.wa.gov 

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About Washington State Parks

The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission manages more than 100 state parks and properties totaling approximately 120,000 acres. The Commission provides a variety of recreation opportunities for citizens and provides stewardship protection for a diverse array of natural, cultural and historic resources. State Parks’ statewide programs include long-distance trails, boating safety and winter recreation. 

News release number: 21-054

This press release was produced by Washington State Parks. The views expressed here are the author’s own.