Forest After Fire – Q&A with Hannah Ormshaw
Hannah Ormshaw is the Natural Resource Manager for the San Mateo County Parks Department. Hannah has an academic and professional background as a geographer & ecologist. Her work for the Parks Department includes overseeing all habitat enhancement, invasive species control, fuel reduction and forest health projects, mapping, and wildlife monitoring.
What did you see when you visited Pescadero Creek County Park?
So far, the extent of the burned area has mostly been visible from Old Haul Road. CalFire had not yet cleared the area for access due to unsafe conditions. What I saw was that there were differences in the burn intensity in some areas. Where the burn intensity was lower, there is still some understory vegetation and leaf debris visible with some ash and charring of trees and logs. Where the intensity of the burn was higher, most woody debris and leaf litter was fully burned, and there was a prevalent layer of grayish-white ash on the forest floor. There is charring along the tree trunks.
13 of 23 San Mateo County Parks Re-Open as CZU Lightning Complex Fire is Being Contained
After closing completely to attend to the CZU Lightning Complex Fire, San Mateo County Parks have returned to Phase II of the COVID-19 park management plan. Thirteen of the County’s 23 parks are now open daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Most park rangers had been assigned to Pescadero Creek County Park to assist CalFire in containing the wildfire. Park rangers cut fire fuel breaks, created defensible space around critical infrastructure and made sure people stayed out of harm’s way.
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SAN MATEO COUNTY PARKS FOUNDATION
General Information
The San Mateo County Parks Foundation was established in 1998 to provide additional financial support for the recreational, environmental and educational programs and projects of the San Mateo County Department of Parks. The Foundation is governed by a volunteer board of directors and has a small staff.
The Foundation seeks grants and contributions from individuals, foundations and businesses. Recognition of gifts is done in accordance with the county's approved donor recognition guidelines. The Foundation does not manage the projects directly. The San Mateo County Department of Parks is responsible for the design, permitting, contracting and maintenance of the projects.
Mission Statement
The San Mateo County Parks Foundation inspires people to care for, learn about and enjoy our parks.
Fundraising Priorities and Current Goals
In partnership with the San Mateo County Department of Parks, the Foundation raises funds to support projects, programs and volunteers for benefit parks and visitors.
We are committed to conserving and improving the quality of our county parks for current and future generations to enjoy.