IL Scoping Meeting

091411

Public Scoping Workshop Scheduled for The Nature Conservancy Independence Lake Forest Thinning Hazardous Fuels Reduction Project

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) will hold a public scoping workshop to solicit input on the development of a National Environmental Policy Act Environmental Assessment (EA) for a forest thinning and hazardous fuels reduction project at Independence Lake.  TNC purchased the land surrounding the lake in 2010.  The purpose of the workshop is to explain the proposed forest management activities and gather public input concerning issues and alternatives to be considered in the EA.  The EA will analyze utilizing Bureau of Reclamation Desert Terminal Lakes grant funds for the forest management to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire for the purpose of protection of the lake’s water quality and native fish.

Public scoping workshop:

Date:  Wednesday, September 28, 2011                         

Time:  1:30 – 3:30 p.m. 

Location:  Independence Lake Preserve, CA

The workshop will begin at the Little Truckee Summit large paved parking area.  Directions to parking area from I-80:  Exit I-80 to Highway 89 North – Sierraville.  Travel approximately 15 miles north on Highway 89 to left turn at Independence Lake/Webber Lake/Jackson Meadow Reservoir turn-off.  Directions from Sierraville:  Follow Route 89 south approximately 9 miles to right turn at Independence Lake/Webber Lake/Jackson Meadow Reservoir turn-off.  High clearance vehicle recommended.

Written comments on the scope of the EA should be sent by close of business Friday October 14, 2011 to

Chris Fichtel, Independence Lake Project Director; The Nature Conservancy, One East First Street, Suite 1007, Reno, NV  89501; Fax: (775) 322-5132; E-mail: cfichtel@tnc.org.  For additional information please contact Chris at (775) 322-4990.