January 2023
US Forest Service Hydrology Technician, Kassandra Grimm, analyzing data collected from the Casper Creek Watershed Experiment during recent storms. The data is collected in the field and analyzed in the lab can inform scientists about what changes in stream flow and erosion processes result from the different silvicultural practices investigated.
RESEARCH: How and Why Data is Collected and Used During a Storm at the Casper Creek Watershed Experiment

While many of us are sheltered inside from the rain and wind, JDSF and US Forest Service staff brave the elements to collect valuable data from the Casper Creek Experimental Watershed Study. To obtain this valuable data, research stations along the North and South forks of Caspar Creek, and their tributaries, are serviced and maintained. During storms, crews ensure flumes are swept of debris, dataloggers and water sampling equipment are checked for accuracy and operation, and turbidity sensors are cleared of organic matter or silt that can bury them in the stream during high flows.

Samples are then collected and processed in a lab to determine the amount of sediment suspended in the water at the moment the sample was taken. Follow the link below to learn more. 
Using 3D rendering and visualization tools such as this aids JDSF staff in understanding and implementing silvicultural practices that best serve the goal of a sustainable forest.
DEMONSTRATION: Using 3D Visual Models to Better Understand Forest Management and Timber Harvest Practices

What will a timber harvest plan look like in the forest? This video, and other computer-generated imagery used by foresters at JDSF, were created by Alpine Land Information Systems using a software program called Visual Forester. Utilizing both historic and current-day scientific data collected by CAL FIRE from the forest, these photorealistic 3D models create immersive forest visualizations to help show crucial information and facilitate better and more informed decision-making based on sound science.

The computer-generated 3D visualizations provide forecasted representations of what forest managers expect the stand to look like at various times: pre, post, and 20-years after harvest based on that data and our extensive experience as stewards of JDSF. 
A Salmon swimming up-river in the South Fork Noyo River at JDSF. It is estimated that almost 300 salmon have passed through monitoring stations to spawning grounds up-river so far this season.
RESEARCH: Salmon on the Move: How Biologists Monitor Their Populations at JDSF

The salmon are on the move in JDSF, and biologists from California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and their partners are monitoring them extensively. High flows like the ones we’ve been seeing the past couple weeks can allow fish to bypass monitoring stations, but robust experimental design still allows for populations estimates.
A variety of vegetation maintenance tools are used throughout the forest to help keep roads clear and accessible year-round. This is important for day-to-day access but also essential for ingress and egress in an emergency.
DEMONSTRATION: How CAL FIRE Conducts Roadside Vegetation Maintenance at JDSF

Much like the vegetation around our homes, vegetation clearance along forest road systems must be maintained for fire suppression and general forest operations access. Maintaining healthy roadside vegetation also provides safe ingress and egress routes, both for the public and emergency services. Chipping and mastication are two of the methods JDSF employs to accomplish this ongoing workload. Let’s look at each of these methods and their advantages and drawbacks, which affect where and how they are applied throughout the forest. 
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The Jackson Demonstration State Forest Advisory Group (JAG) is an advisory body of CAL FIRE and the Board of Forestry and Fire Protection. The Mission of the JAG is to provide advice/recommendations to CAL FIRE and the Board regarding issues relevant to the periodic review of the JDSF Management Plan required under Board policy; ongoing implementation issues; and policy matters relevant to JDSF.
Proposed Dates Announced for 2023 Jackson Advisory Group Meetings 
In response to community feedback, and to make JAG meetings more accessible, the dates for all four meetings for 2023 are published. Meetings will occur on March 15, June 6, September 15, and November 15. More information on the time and location of these meetings will be made available closer to the respective dates. Please be aware that meeting dates are tentative and subject to change for a variety of reasons, including weather. For more information on the JAG, follow the link below.  
Mendocino Coast Cyclists (MCC) JDSF Trail Days are Open to Everyone! 

Do you love riding in the forest? Join MCC for their monthly trail days at JDSF on the first Saturday of every month. For more information including the time and location of each trail day, follow the link below to connect with MCC.