California — Sierra-at-Tahoe skis a lot differently than it did in the early 2020s. The reason for that was the devastating Caldor Fire, which resulted in Sierra-at-Tahoe being closed for basically the entire 2021-22 season. The years that followed resulted in the removal of various trees that were scarred by the flames. Now, work has begun on growing the next generation of trees.
Two weeks ago, Sierra-at-Tahoe planted more than 16,000 seedlings in the West Bowl terrain pod. The trees planted were mostly Red Fir and Jeffrey Pine, along with a small amount of White Fir, Western White Pine, and Sugar Pine. According to Sierra-at-Tahoe, those trees were chosen for their “viability, compatibility and the greatest chance of long-term success.” This project is being done as a collaboration with the US Forest Service and El Dorado RCD.
The tree’s patterns are a mix of uniform and cluster planting. Uniform planting is to create trail markers, allow skiers to see their surroundings better, prevent cornices from taking shape, and create a wind barrier. Cluster planting will create new tree skiing zones.
In what is a good sign for the area, the forest is beginning to show signs of regeneration.
“From what we’ve seen so far, the forest is showing strong signs of regeneration which is great to see,” said Jesse Cone, a Silviculturist for the Placerville Ranger District of the Eldorado National Forest. “This next phase is about intentional planting both in terms of location and the species of conifers we reintroduce.”
Work will continue in the years ahead on this seedling expansion. While it may take a while for guests to realize them, these seedlings will eventually create a tree network that will result in some memorable skiing and riding.
“A key to great off-piste (glade) skiing is tree spacing . Forests naturally grow in clusters and patches, not perfect grids, so we’re planting the trees in a way to mimic the unique natural feel, look and flow you would expect to find at a ski resort,” said Mark Egbert, who’s the district manager of the El Dorado and Georgetown Divide Resource Conservation Districts. “This is just the beginning of a multi-year recovery and each phase brings new energy and excitement to the mountain.”
Image Credits: Sierra-at-Tahoe
