1. Contact: communications@prescott-az.gov
Office: (928) 777-1362
City clears debris and vegetation in unprecedented demonstration
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PRESCOTT, AZ (November 1, 2016) – The City of Prescott is conducting a vegetation reduction
demonstration project at Willow Lake Reservoir to showcase the multi-faceted challenge of
managing water resources, preserving recreational opportunities and mitigating wildfire risk—
while simultaneously protecting Prescott’s natural habitat.
The demonstration project, the first of its kind in Prescott, will last from Friday, Nov. 4 to
Wednesday, Nov. 30. Work will occur during normal business hours, Tuesday-Friday. Trails will
be closed on these days to protect the public from dangers associated with heavy equipment,
large vehicles and chainsaws. Fire crews will perform most of the work, removing all trees
below the reservoir spill level (5140’), clearing the trail of hazardous limb and ladder fuels, and
reducing stands in the trail corridor.
“It’s a balancing act, juggling the many needs of man and nature,” says Water Resource
Manager Leslie Graser. “Our main objective here is to protect the quality of water in our
reservoirs. By removing overgrowth from the banks and shallows we help keep the water clean
and circulating. But we’re also enhancing trails, boat launches and other recreational
opportunities, while clearing debris associated with wildfire risk.”
2. To that end, multiple city departments—Fire, Recreation Services and Water Resource
Management—are collaborating on this unprecedented demonstration project. A biologist with
the United States Forest Service is working with the City to oversee the needs and movements
of indigenous species, to include nesting seasons and migratory patterns. In lieu of the landfill,
vegetation removed during the project is being recycled into woodchips.
Project area map is attached. For more information, contact Marsha Collier, Fuels Management
Coordinator, 928-777-1713, or Steve Mancha, Recreation Services Supervisor, 928-777-1581.
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