Forest Service plans roadside brush trimming near Black Butte, Metolius River on Sisters Ranger District

SISTERS, Ore. (KTVZ) -- – Roadside brush trimming operations will begin as soon as Friday along Forest Service Road 11 on the Sisters Ranger District. If weather conditions allow, brushing operations will also occur along FSR 12 and FRS 14 over the next few months.

The roadside brushing, as it's called, is conducted as a part of road maintenance to prevent vegetation from encroaching into the roadway and improve visibility along the travel corridor, so drivers can see other vehicles, pedestrians, and wildlife.

Roadside brushing also decreases wildfire risk by reducing the height and density of brush along the roadway. If left untreated, tall, thick brush can pose a serious risk for wildfires that burn with high intensity and are more challenging for fighters to safely suppress.

Brushing operations will occur on both sides of the roads and will start on the lower section of FSR 11, along the east side of Black Butte. Depending on weather conditions, operations will then move to FSR 12 just west of the Metolius River and then FSR 14 along the east side of the Metolius River.

Contractors are starting this work now to take advantage of cooler weather and increased moisture and reduce impacts during fire season and the busy recreation season. What doesn’t get completed this winter may need to occur next summer season.

No trail or road closures are anticipated. The Forest Service asks the public to be aware of this work and avoid areas when roadside brushing operations are occurring.

For more information, please contact the Sisters Ranger District at (541) 549-7700.