New Forest Plan Released

New management plans for the San Bernardino National Forest and three other Southern California forests were released Friday as officials attempt to balance growth in recreation with protection of wildlife and scenery.

Protection of communities from wildfire is also a focus of the plan, especially important in the San Bernardino National Forest, which has been decimated by drought and bark beetles. The fire danger there remains high, despite the huge Old and Grand Prix fires in 2003 and heavy winter rains.

"We focused more on forest health and fuels treatment at the urban interface," said Ruth Wenstrom, spokeswoman for the San Bernardino National Forest.

http://www2.sbsun.com/news/ci_3057088