Forest fires are part of the lifecycle of the forest, however, because of development in or near forest lands, more than just the forest is threatened, and we have to do something about it ... proactively managing the forest lands to try to reduce the likelihood of major forest fires makes more sense. This includes clearing underbrush which provides fuel for the fires as well as cutting down some trees to make firelanes and firebreaks in the event that a major fire does start.
It's not just about getting rid of trees. It's about removing them in the right places and the right ways ... and also replanting to avoid problems caused by soil erosion, runoff, and mudslides.
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