Program Spotlight: North Bay Forest Improvement Program

Healthy forests are more resilient forests.

The North Bay Forest Improvement Program (NBFIP) helps landowners in Lake, Sonoma, Mendocino, and Napa counties fund projects that improve forest health and long-term ecosystem resilience. Practices like thinning overcrowded trees, pruning ladder fuels, and replanting native species help improve forest structure and support wildlife habitat. They also make forests more resilient to environmental stressors such as wildfire, drought, and pests.

Eligible landowners may receive cost-share funding for up to 80% of project costs, depending on location and project type.

If you own 5 to 5,000 acres of forested land and are considering stewardship work, NBFIP may be able to help.

Celebrating Stewardship this Earth Day

As Earth Day approaches, CLERC reflects on its origins and the work that continues today. Ever wonder about the origins of Earth Day? The first Earth Day in 1970 grew from growing environmental concern from an oil spill in California, and its legacy is closely tied to Clear Lake, where pioneering environmentalist Rachel Carson conducted research that inspired her landmark book Silent Spring. At CLERC, we are honored to carry forward this spirit through our stewardship work, tending the land and water we are privileged to serve.

Program Update: Community Chipping

Each spring, neighbors across Lake County work together to make their homes and communities more resilient. One of the simplest ways to start is by clearing trimmed vegetation and having it chipped instead of burned or left to accumulate.

CLERC's Community Chipping Program helps residents safely dispose of brush while reducing hazardous fuels around homes and neighborhoods.

Many communities already have chipping events scheduled throughout the year. See if your neighborhood is on the calendar:

Don't see your area listed? Sign up anyway and encourage your neighbors to join you. When six or more nearby properties register, we can often schedule a chipping day in your area.

Residents in the Cobb and Middletown areas receive chipping services through a subcontract with the South Lake Fire Safe Council.

Small actions taken together can make a big difference for the safety and resilience of our communities.