Watch CBS News

Century-Old Redwood Trees OK'd For Lumber Harvest, Despite Objections

KCBS_740 GUALALA (KCBS/AP) -- Cal Fire has approved a timber harvest plan that involves logging century-old redwood trees along the Sonoma County coast despite the objections of environmental advocates.

The Press Democrat reports that environmental advocates may challenge the 330-acre "Dogwood" harvest plan that the state fire and forest agency approved Friday.

Gualala Redwood Timber Inc. acquired the land along the lower Gualala River in the northwest corner of Sonoma County last year.

Spokesman Henry Alden says the company plans to begin logging this summer unless there is outside interference.

Environmental groups like Forest Unlimited and Friends of the Gualala River have said they are considering taking the case to court.

They say the logging plan violates rules meant to protect sensitive habitats and floodplains, although Alden strongly disputes that. The groups are also concerned about the operation's cumulative effects.

TM and © Copyright 2016 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2016 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.