Volunteers Wanted for Tree Planting in Station Fire Burn Area

The large Station Fire of 2009 charred a massive portion of the Angeles National Forest, which is still in need of restoration.

To help replace trees in areas that need help, TreePeople and the US Forest Service are planting 15,000 seedlings this year and are asking for the public’s help.

Previous planting efforts in the Station Fire burn area yielded a lower-than-expected seedling survival rate, the LA Times reported last April.

Planting will start Saturday, Feb. 23 and continue on Thursdays through Sundays until the middle or end of April.

A mixture of Jeffrey pine, Coulter pine, and Douglas-fir seedlings grown from native seeds harvested on the Angeles National Forest will be planted, according to TreePeople.

Those interested in planting will need to pre-register here: http://www.treepeople.org/volunteer-search

For advice on what to wear and bring to plant, TreePeople shared:

We encourage you to wear long pants, dress in layers, and bring a jacket. All volunteers must wear closed-toe shoes (hard sole boots strongly recommended). Also, bring sunscreen, a full water bottle, your own snacks and a sack lunch. Forest Aid recommends that you bring a day pack to make sure you have all the necessary items for mountain planting. Bulk water will be available to refill your water bottle. Please remember: Tree planting at high elevations can be rigorous work, so enjoy a hearty breakfast before you arrive.

Major funding for the project is provided by Southern California Edison.

Are you interested in helping plant seedlings in the Station Fire burn areas? What do you think of the planting project?