New Initiatives

Carbon Sequestration

Carbon Sequestration is part of the Forest Sector of the Summit County Climate Action Plan. The Forest Health Task Force is participating with other stakeholders in identifying actions that can be taken to increase levels of carbon sequestration in Summit County forest lands and open spaces.

Ecological and Aesthetic Enhancement of Fuel Breaks

Creating fuel breaks adjoining neighborhoods is an important tool of the overall wildfire mitigation effort. Fuels breaks provide crown fire buffers and allow critical safe access for firefighters and equipment.

The size and configuration of fuel breaks should be based on evolving fire-science data. Further, the long-term management of fuel breaks is important for their continued effectiveness. Vegetation density and type must be monitored and controlled. Fuel breaks by their nature are in heavily used locations near people, making a more proactive approach to enhancing ecological and aesthetic values necessary.

The Forest Health Task Force is organizing volunteers to thin young saplings and seedlings, and eradicate noxious weeds and invasive species in fuel break locations and campground. We are also actively participating in public discussions about the size, configuration, and long-term management of fuel breaks.