Yuba Forest Network’s Field Trip to the Yuba Watershed Institute’s ‘Inimim Forest Restoration Project 

The Yuba Forest Network (YFN) is a forest health collaborative comprised of groups whose goal is to accelerate the pace and scale of forest health initiatives throughout the Yuba and Bear River watersheds. YFN emphasizes cross-boundary collaboration and stakeholder engagement through quarterly meetings and public events to promote the sharing of resources and collaborative learning. Outreach is further amplified by organizations such as SYRCL through public education on forest health, fire ecology, and climate adaptation, including specific programs for youth and private landowners.    

Recently, the Yuba Watershed Institute, led by their Executive Director Chris Friedel, hosted the Yuba Forest Network for a tour of their ‘Inimim Forest Restoration Project. The purpose of the tour was to compare forest health treatment methods of various ages and explore the complexities of collaborative restoration projects. 

What is the ‘Inimim Forest Restoration Project? 

Nestled along the San Juan Ridge between the South and Middle Yuba Rivers lies the ‘Inimim Forest—a nearly 2,000-acre expanse of public and private lands that has become a beacon of community-led forest stewardship. Managed by the Yuba Watershed Institute (YWI) in partnership with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), this forest is named after the Nisenan word for “ponderosa pine,” reflecting its deep-rooted cultural and ecological significance.   

A Vision for a Thriving Forest 

The ‘Inimim Forest isn’t just a collection of trees; it’s a living testament to what collaborative, science-informed, and community-driven forest management can achieve. Since 1990, YWI has worked alongside BLM to restore this landscape to a healthy condition, balancing ecological integrity with sustainable human use. The forest serves as a vital habitat for wildlife, a natural buffer against wildfire, and a cherished space for education, recreation, and cultural connection. 

Tackling Wildfire Risk with Care 

In recent years, the ‘Inimim Forest Restoration Project has become a cornerstone of regional wildfire resilience efforts. With funding from CAL FIRE and the Sierra Nevada Conservancy, YWI has implemented a phased approach to reduce hazardous fuels and improve forest health: 

• Phase 1 (completed in 2020): Focused on hand-cutting, chipping, and pile burning along key roadways. 
• Phase 2 (completed in 2021): Treated 314 acres using a mix of hand thinning and mechanical mastication. 
• Phase 3 (underway): Phase 3 will include 13 acres of mechanical mastication, 38 acres of hand thinning (with disposal by pile burning or chipping), and 253 acres of commercial harvest, with merchantable logs decked for a future BLM timber sale, and understory and activity fuels piled for future burning.

These treatments are meticulously planned to protect sensitive species like the California spotted owl and northern goshawk, while also preserving vital wildlife corridors that connect the South and Middle Yuba watersheds.  

A Model for Community-Led Stewardship 

The ‘Inimim Forest stands as one of the nation’s earliest examples of community-based forest planning on federal land. The original 1995 management plan, crafted with input from local residents, scientists, and land managers, laid the groundwork for a sustainable approach that balances ecological health with community needs. This collaborative spirit continues today, with YWI engaging in ongoing research, monitoring, and adaptive management to ensure the forest thrives for generations to come. 

Protecting Our Communities 

The importance of the ‘Inimim Forest extends beyond its boundaries. It plays a critical role in the larger South Yuba Rim Project: a 17-mile fuel break designed to shield communities like Nevada City and Grass Valley from the threat of wildfire. By creating defensible space and safe zones for firefighting efforts, the ‘Inimim Forest contributes to a broader strategy aimed at safeguarding lives, homes, and natural resources across the region.  

Join the Effort 

The restoration of the ‘Inimim Forest is a testament to what we can achieve when we come together with a shared vision for our environment. Whether you’re interested in volunteering, participating in citizen science projects, or simply learning more about sustainable forest management, there are many ways to get involved. 

To learn more about the ‘Inimim Forest and how you can contribute to its ongoing stewardship, visit the Yuba Watershed Institute’s website: yubawatershedinstitute.org