i_wrrc_2018a_2018-08-07t09:03:47z2 Hearing Summary

Mike Lester, Colorado State Forester, introduced himself to the committee and distributed information on the health of Colorado forests [Attachment C].  Mr. Lester discussed the impacts of forest disturbances, such as wildfire, on water resources.  Impacts include earlier snow pack run-off, less tree cover, and increased flooding.  Mr. Lester discussed Colorado State Forest Service (CSFS) programs that help created healthier forests, such as the forest restoration and wildfire risk mitigation grant program, forest legacy program, and community wildfire protection plans.  He also discussed the Colorado Big Thompson Headwaters partnership and other watershed partnerships that CSFS has initiated.

Mr. Lester responded to questions from the committee regarding good neighbor authority projects and long term planning for those projects. He discussed funding for certain projects focused on maintaining forest health and responded to questions concerning carbon sequestration in trees, the eradication of pine beetles, and the cost associated with removing trees infected with pine beetles.

The committee recessed for lunch.