South Yuba River Citizens League

SYRCL Aspen Volunteer Days

Funded by the CA Wildlife Conservation Board, SYRCL kicked off the first field season of the Yuba River Headwater Aspen Restoration Assessment and Planning Project. The objective of this project is to plan for at least 100 acres of the most critically threatened aspen vegetation in the watershed. The first step is to assess the current state of aspen in the watershed, and SYRCL wants to get volunteers involved in this crucial step.

Quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides) populations, although vigorous in Colorado, Utah, and the eastern side of the Sierra Nevada, are in decline within the Yuba River watershed. According to one former Tahoe National Forest Wildlife Biologist, aspen is the single resource at greatest risk of loss in the watershed, particularly the unique genetic combinations present. Therefore, aspen restoration actions are in a critical need.

Volunteer Role Description. SYRCL is hosting Aspen Volunteer Days to bring people together to assess and monitor aspen within the Yuba River Watershed. Volunteers can expect to spend the day (10 am to 2:30 pm) assessing aspen health, including identifying tree diseases, looking out for excessive browsing and conifer encroachment, and observing regenerating aspen sprouts.

Field monitoring equipment will be provided. Volunteers are expected to bring their own water, snacks, and field attire. Hiking boots or tennis shoes are recommended, as well as ample sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, long pants, long sleeve shirt). Please bring a face mask.

Aspen stands provide abundant habitat for insects, birds, wildlife, and plant life. Birders, botanists, and naturalists, amateur to professional are encouraged to sign up. Aspen stands are a truly magical place with much to appreciate.