Firewise and parks support a 2nd effort to reduce fire fuels

By Nancy Hiser 

In late October, 17 volunteers gathered in chilly but clear weather to tackle invasive laurel and holly ladder fuels adjacent to Forest Park. Nathan Schulte, Portland Parks’ botanic technician, led enthused folks from Linnton, Springville, Harborton, and Newberry who teamed up with Kim Kosmas, Firewise director and senior public education officer for the Portland Fire and Rescue, and Assistant Fire Marshal Jason Birch.

Within a half day, their collective work cleared growth below the forest canopy and the piles of removed debris grew. As with the previous work on Springville, remaining FEMA grant funds paid for contractors to remove the debris. Gratitude to all who helped us reduce the risk of fire spreading on Linnton Hill.