Forest work planned for county parks

COLFAX – To lower the risk and effects of wildland fire, Whitman County Parks may execute a forest management plan this year.

The effort is to reduce fuel load and improve fire resiliency at Elberton, Klemgard Park and Kamiak Butte by thinning, pruning and chipping on dozens of acres of timberland.

A joint project with the Whitman Conservation District, county parks worked with consultants Northwest Management in 2018-19 to create a plan for forested areas in each park.

Aside from density of tree stands, consultants evaluated factors such as wildlife habitat, soils, noxious weeds, sensitive sp...