Forest Projects Span Protection, Burns, Flooding

Flooding from high flows on the Gila River has closed the Mogollon Day Use Area to vehicles until waters recede, with officials warning visitors to avoid flooded roads. In South Carolina, more than 2,800 acres across Beaufort, Hampton and Jasper counties have been designated Pocotaligo Station State Forest, to be managed for wildlife habitat and recreation, including licensed hunting in some areas; supporters say the project may also help reduce flood risks. In Arizona, the Coconino National Forest is seeking volunteers to plant trees in several wildfire-scarred areas near Flagstaff to restore habitat and reduce soil erosion. The forest is also conducting pile burns at three sites near Flagstaff, Mormon Lake and Baderville.