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South Arkansas Fire Protection District, Forest Service, and Local Homeowner Collaborate to Improve Forest Health and Reduce Wildfire Risk

The South Arkansas Fire Protection District (SAFPD), in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and local homeowner Sheldon Morgan, recently completed a collaborative forest health and wildfire mitigation project in Pinon Ridge Estates. This community-driven effort focused on strategic tree removal, fuels reduction, and long-term forest resilience.

As part of the project, SAFPD personnel and Forest Service representatives walked the property with the homeowner to evaluate current vegetation conditions and identify trees and brush to be removed. This on-the-ground collaboration allows mitigation work to be tailored to the unique landscape, improving both wildfire defensibility and ecological health.

The team emphasized selective thinning—marking specific trees for removal to reduce overcrowding while preserving key species and canopy coverage. This strategic forestry approach improves tree vigor, reduces ladder fuels, and limits the potential for high-intensity crown fires.

“Projects like this highlight how effective community partnerships can be,” said Division Chief Christopher Bainbridge. “By working directly with landowners and the Forest Service, we’re able to create defensible space while supporting a healthier, more resilient forest ecosystem.”

This project is part of SAFPD’s ongoing community wildfire mitigation initiative, which encourages property owners to engage in proactive planning and fuels reduction before a fire occurs. When private landowners, local fire districts, and federal partners work together, communities become more fire-adapted and resilient.

A person operates a wood chipper in a snowy, rural landscape with fall trees and buildings in the background.
Pinon Ridge Estates with SAFPD assistance.
Three people in winter clothing stand in a snowy forest.
Forest Service Personnel and local Homeowner, Sheldon Morgan.
A person in a hooded jacket stands near snow-covered trees in a snowy landscape.
SAFPD personnel marking trees on Pinon Ridge.
A person operates a wood chipper in a snowy, rural landscape with fall trees and buildings in the background.
Three people in winter clothing stand in a snowy forest.
A person in a hooded jacket stands near snow-covered trees in a snowy landscape.