Evacuation routes out of Cedar ridge

[Mike Olenchalk]

I have been successful in obtaining California Department of Forestry grants for fuels reduction. I am currently beginning and operation in conjunction with Sierra Glen Apple Ranch and Old Oak Ranch to to reduce ladder and brush fuels on the boundaries with Sierra Outdoor School. I am the Director of Sierra Outdoor School as well as a Director with the Highway 108 fireSafe Council. I have discussed the possibility of applying for a grant through CDF that can be administered through the FireSafe Council to do fuels reduction on the stretch of road between Sierra Outdoor School and Pack Trail Road. In the event of a fire, the road, which is actually Old Oak Ranch Road will become a fire tunnel because of the build up of fuels. It is considered a county road but is not accepted into the county maintenance system. I have talked with Barry Rudolph, Battalion Chief for the Twain Harte Fire District, and he is interested in getting something done up here. I have also talked to Jayne Montoya USFS who is also a resident of Cedar Ridge about working on the project. I would like to set up a time to meet with the CRR board to discuss the possiblity of getting something moving. As you know exit routes out of Cedar Ridge are limited. Please email me @ MichaelOlenchalk@cusd.com if you interested in this discussion.