The City of Prineville Council meeting on May 28, 2024, featured significant discussions on forest restoration and environmental management initiatives in the region. Key presentations were made by the Ochiko Forest Restoration Collaborative, focusing on Western juniper ecology and shaded fuel breaks.

Tim DeBout and Andy Gallagher presented findings on Western juniper, highlighting that there are 14 species of juniper in the United States, with the Western juniper being prevalent in the area. They noted an increase in the species, with estimates of 9 to 35 large juniper trees per acre. The presentation outlined the three growth stages of junipers: seedling, sapling, and old growth, emphasizing the ecological importance of these trees.

Gallagher also discussed funding received by the Soil Water Conservation District, amounting to $850,000, aimed at improving land above local reservoirs. The cost for land treatment is approximately $400 per acre, which is expected to benefit local wildlife, including mule deer and sage grouse.

The meeting also covered the topic of shaded fuel breaks, which are strips of land where vegetation and fuels are reduced to mitigate fire risks. The group is in the early stages of preparing a National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) document to outline the implementation of these breaks.

Updates from the Forest Service included information on the Mill Creek project, which has received seven objections, with a decision anticipated by June or July. They are also addressing comments on the Corral Flat Environmental Assessment, expected to be completed by the same timeframe. The Forest Service is actively engaging with local tribes regarding the wildland crisis strategy, particularly in the Crooked River Ranch area.

Additionally, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) participated in the meeting, announcing plans to update the sage grouse habitat map covering over 200,000 acres and revamp the Chimney Rock Recreation Site.

The meeting concluded with a suggestion to refer to Western juniper by its Latin name, Juniperus occidentalis, to enhance respect for the species. Overall, the discussions underscored ongoing efforts to manage and restore local ecosystems effectively.