FLAGSTAFF — Ground crews have started necessary preparation work for helicopter logging in the Mt. Elden and Dry Lake Hills areas of the Flagstaff Watershed Protection Project (FWPP).
Beginning in mid-January, helicopter flight operations will be visible as the helicopter lifts and transports bundles of felled trees from the project area to established landing sites. The helicopter operations will occur during daylight hours, seven days a week for three to five months depending on operational conditions.
Logging equipment will be active along the Shultz Pass and Mt. Elden Lookout Road area. The primary helicopter landing and service area will be located at the base of Mt. Elden on the Coconino National Forest and in an area closed to the public for operator and public safety. Noise and visible activity created by the helicopter flight operations will be present across the project area starting in mid-January and lasting through late spring.
The FWPP Phase II steep slope contractor is working concurrently to fell trees in the steep slope contract areas and steep slope ground-based equipment will soon be working to process, pile and haul the cut material.
As the helicopter and steep slope work progresses, closure orders restricting public access into the Mt. Elden and Dry Lake Hills area will be implemented for community and operator safety. This will include the Mt. Elden Lookout Road and portions of popular trails such as Rocky Ridge and Oldham trails. Please respect all closures, and do not approach logging machinery or equipment at any time.
For more information or to view an interactive map of the project area please visit: http://flagstaffwatershedprotection.org/.