Community Notice: Upcoming Forest Management and Logging on
The City of Hope would like to let community members know about upcoming forest
management and logging activities planned on City-owned property, as shown on the
attached map. The current plan of activity is to start in late February/early March and finish in May. These activities are being undertaken to improve public safety, forest health, and wildfire
preparedness.
The work will be carried out by Matz Logging Company, the same local contractor that
completed logging operations for the City of Hope in 2021. During that earlier project,
mechanical equipment was used and some steep areas could not be safely logged.
What Will Be Different This Time
For this project, logging will be completed by experienced hand crews using chainsaws
in addition to heavy mechanical equipment. This allows for more careful, selective tree
removal and makes it possible to work safely in areas that were previously inaccessible,
while reducing ground disturbance.
Tree Species Involved
Trees planned for removal include Douglas fir, White fir, Ponderosa pine, and limited
amounts of Western red cedar. The focus is on removing trees that are overcrowded,
damaged, or showing signs of decline.
Protecting the City’s Water System
Special attention will be given to areas around the City’s water plant and water storage
tanks. This fall, a tree fell onto one of the water storage tanks, underscoring the need to
remove hazardous trees near critical infrastructure. The project will also create defensible
space around these facilities to reduce wildfire risk and improve long-term safety.
Improving Forest Health and Reducing Fire Risk
Many trees in the project area show dead or dying tops, which can attract beetles and
contribute to the spread of tree mortality. Removing these trees helps protect healthier
trees nearby. Thinning the forest will reduce overcrowding, allow younger trees room to
grow, and leave stronger, mature trees to continue developing.With a winter marked by low snowpack, conditions suggest an increased risk of wildfire in the coming fire season. Proactive forest thinning and removal of dead material are important steps to reduce fuel loads and improve the forest’s resilience to fire.
Benefits to the Community
In addition to safety and environmental benefits, current log market conditions are
favorable. Revenue generated from this project will go directly into the City’s general fund
and help support City services and community needs.
Community Questions and City Council Meeting
Community members are encouraged to ask questions and share comments about
this project. Please join the City of Hope City Council meeting using the details below:
City Council Meeting: Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at 6:30 PM
Call-in Phone Number: (602) 610-2060
Meeting Code: 121131
The City of Hope appreciates the community’s understanding and support as we work to
maintain safe infrastructure, healthier forests, and a more fire-resilient landscape.
Bill Breen
Mayor, City of Hope