Inflation Reduction Act
Recovery | FY23 $8,000,000

The National Park Service (NPS) supports landscape restoration efforts in Redwood National and State Parks, particularly in the Prairie Creek watershed. This initiative, led by the Redwoods Rising collaboration of NPS, California State Parks, and Save the Redwoods League, aims to accelerate the restoration of 43,280 acres through strategic interventions such as forest thinning, road removal, and aquatic ecosystem enhancement.

Why? With a focus on the Prairie Creek watershed, the project is consistent with the intent of Congress outlined in the Park Expansion Act of 1978 (P.L. 95-250). By leveraging private donations and state and federal funds, the Redwoods Rising collaborative seeks to accelerate high-priority restoration. The project’s strategic forest thinning and removal of old logging roads aim to reduce wildfire risk, enhance carbon sequestration, and strengthen forest resilience. The initiative builds on Redwoods Rising’s successful restoration activities since 2019 and demonstrates the collaborative’s ability to secure funding and implement effective actions.

What else? The project is based on completed compliance requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act, California Environmental Quality Act, Endangered Species Act, and National Historic Preservation Act and is ready to go, allowing for immediate implementation. Not only does it contribute to regional and national priorities, including the Justice 40 Initiative and climate resilience, but it also addresses the needs of the local Orick community. Additionally, the project promotes long-term restoration and protection of the redwood ecosystem, benefiting local communities and providing training opportunities for youth.