Similar to the Richardson Grove highway widening project, Caltrans has submitted a proposal for an
STAA expansion along Highways 199 and 197 through the old growth redwoods adjacent to the middle fork of the Smith River. The project is more severe than Richardson Grove in that it includes seven locations along the Smith River, which has a national designation as a wild and scenic river. Some of the proposed alternatives include: the removal of several large old growth trees; replacement of several culverts, removal of a bridge that was built in the 1920’s, and installation of a 400 foot long retaining wall along the scenic highway.
Comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Report/ Environmental Assessment are due on Monday August 23, 2010.