June 2025

Let your Creativity Take Flight with JDSF's Feathered Friends

Earlier this year, JDSF biologist Robert Douglas led a walk with the Mendocino Coast Audubon Society. A dozen bird enthusiasts met at Camp 20 on a misty morning and rambled several miles through the surrounding forest near Road 210 for approximately three hours looking and listening for various avian species. The most common species spotted was the turkey vulture and frequently heard were brown creepers and chestnut backed chickadees. Also spotted were salamanders and scorpions, and of course our common ravens and jays. For those not able to attend, we’ve got two fun coloring pages featuring local birds. Please tag us on Facebook or Instagram, @CALFIREJDSF with your completed artwork! 

Photo Credit: Greg Schechter

Intersecting Research and Land Management at the Redwood Fuels Mitigation Project



On May 14, 2025, Jackson Demonstration State Forest hosted a tour of the Redwood Fuels Mitigation Project, a cutting-edge research effort focused on managing wildfire risk in California’s redwood region. Forestry and natural resource professionals gathered to learn about six fuel treatments tested across diverse forest types and climates within JDSF. Led by UC Cooperative Extension Forest Advisor Michael Jones, the tour highlighted early findings, project logistics, and the long-term value of this research. The ongoing monitoring of these plots will help inform future land management strategies, offering critical insights for adapting to increasing wildfire activity while balancing multiple forest goals.

Why Soil Scientists Dig the JDSF's Unique Soil



On June 6–7, 2025, the Professional Scientists Association of California and the California Forest Soils Council held a joint field tour through Jackson Demonstration State Forest and beyond, exploring how soils, climate, and fire interact across Mendocino County. About 50 attendees visited iconic sites like the Pygmy Forest soil pits and inland fire study areas, guided by leading researchers and CAL FIRE staff. From historic studies by Hans Jenny to new prescribed fire experiments, the tour showcased how geology, climate, and forest management shape our landscape.  

Get to Know Three of JDSF's Reptilian Residents 



Jackson Demonstration State Forest is home to a variety of native reptiles, including the Western terrestrial garter snake (left), Pacific ring-necked snake (center), and Northern alligator lizard (right). The Western terrestrial garter snake is a fast-moving predator often seen near streams, feeding on amphibians and small fish. The Pacific ring-necked snake, with its striking orange neck ring, is shy and nocturnal, often found hiding under rocks or logs. The Northern alligator lizard, though not a snake, is commonly grouped with them and can be spotted basking on sunny days. Each species plays an important role in the forest’s healthy, balanced ecosystem.