This is a free event, but registration is required, and space is limited. Assistance  is available to those who need help gathering limbs and brush from  their yards. Volunteers are also needed. Please contact Rebecca Cayen by  March 31st to register at: ColumbiaValleyWA@gmail.com or at 360-510-3137.

Stacking and Sizing Specification for Chipping Piles:

• No limbs or brush larger than 6” diameter
• Limbs and brush only – no rootwads, stumps, lawn clippings, raked leaves, trash or non-woody debris.
• Everything must be stacked pointing the same direction – tangled piles will not be chipped

A properly stacked pile is not only for improved efficiency, but also for the safety of the workers loading the chipper.

Watch for Nesting Birds: Columbia Valley chipping event organizers recognize the importance of  keeping birds in mind when promoting hazardous fuels reduction and woody  residue treatment activities. The following will be considered during fuels reduction activities  taking place on private property leading up to the scheduled community  chipping events:

• August through February is the best time to remove hazard trees,  downed debris, prune low-hanging tree limbs, and remove ladder fuels so  as not to disturb bird habitat
• Before beginning pruning or downed debris removal, check for bird activity or nests.
• If you find a nest, give space and work elsewhere.
• Consider replacing flammable, hazardous, or invasive vegetation  with native fire-resistant plants to enhance bird and pollinator habitat  in your landscape

Additional Resources: https://www.nnrg.org/restoration-with-birds-in-mind/ https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detailfull/national/technical/cp/ncps/?cid=nrcs143_026849#U – Woody Residue Treatment (Code 384), Fuel Break (Code 383) & Forest Stand Improvement (Code 666)