Public Input Sought for GMUG Forest Health Projects

As forest health challenges like drought, insects, and disease continue to threaten Western Colorado’s public lands, community members have an opportunity to contribute to how the region responds. 

The U.S. Forest Service is accepting public comment throughout the month of July on two major forest management projects: the Spruce Beetle Epidemic and Aspen Decline Management Response (SBEADMR) and the Taylor Park Vegetation Management Environmental Assessment.  

Both projects hope to improve forest health through a mix of commercial and non-commercial vegetation treatments in the Gunnison, Paonia, Ouray, Grand Valley, and Norwood Ranger Districts of the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forest. 

Western Colorado University’s Center for Public Lands is collaborating with the Gunnison Ranger District to facilitate an Adaptive Management Group, providing the public with a good opportunity to engage with local public lands.  

The work will support healthy forest structure and reduce wildfire risk in Taylor Park, specifically, while addressing widespread aspen decline.  

“This is a great opportunity to help shape how we respond to the very real challenges facing our forests,” CPL director Briget Eastep said. “When land managers hear from the public, it matters.” 

For more information on the Taylor Park Environmental Assessment and opportunities to get involved, visit centerforpubliclands.org.  

To comment or request more information, email SBEADMR.TaylorPark.ProjectInput@usda.gov. The comment period is open through July 31.