THIS JUST IN FROM USFS!
Begining yesterday, August 2nd, there will be a great deal of helicopter traffic above the Strawberry timber sale, which is in and around the communities of Strawberry and Cold Springs.
Columbia Helicopter will be flying a Boeing 107 Vertol, this is a twin rotored helicopter with a considerable rotor wash; this rotor wash is capable of knocking dead branches, dead (or live) tops, and other debris from trees, it may even blow down snags or trees with compromised root systems. As the helicopter will be flying with large loads of timber dangling beneath, it is crucial to stay far away from its flight paths.
Crabtree Road for the first few days will have flagmen at both ends of the sale area stopping traffic to allow the helicopter to cross the road safely (for those on the ground) so take this into account if you are working [or recreating] out on Crabtree Road. Later this week or early next week the helicopter will be working along Strawberry Ridge, road 4n39 will be closed during this period.
Crabtree Road traffic may experience delays (which should not be very long) and the hazards of being near the helicopter. Spectaros are advised by the USFS that it is only safe to watch at distances greater than 3 miles form any portion of the flight path [looky-loos are discouraged!].
Tractor logging is also in full swing in other portions of the Strawberry sale and is just as dangerous to be around as the helicopter. Please do not approach any areas with machinery, active timber falling, or active landings. It is frequently impossible for equipment operators to see or hear you. Remember that even a small tree falling can kill you, and some of the machines can hurl debris great distances with considerable velocity. Do not place yourself downslope of any heavy equipment they can dislodge rocks. dirt. trees, etc.
Be careful on the highway and other roads in the area as there will be heavy truck traffic and trucks may be entering roads at any time. Pay particular attention when on sections of road with traffic control signage.
Any work that needs to be performed in the vicinity of these timber operations should be coodinated with the Summit Sale Administrator, Greg Brown (ext 5300) in order to ensure the saftety of employees.
Thank you for your time, and be aware and safe.
Gregory Brown
Sale Administrator
Summit Ranger District
Stanislaus National Forest
(209) 965-3434 ext 5300
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