Humboldt Tree-sitters Victorious!!! (We hope)

by David Askaripour-Forest Defender
Can you believe it! Both current Humboldt County tree-sits are officially saved and protected. Yesterday I, other Forest Defenders, and a crew from National Geographic accompanied Chief Forester and President of the newly formed Humboldt Redwood Company, Mike Jani, to Fern Gully Tree Village, Freshwater, CA, and the grove around the tree known as “Jerry,” that has been a major part of the struggle. Earlier, activists also hiked Jani in the well known Nanning Creek Tree Village, headed-up by long time Forest Defender, Amy.

“I promise that none of these trees will be cut in the groves,” earnestly stated Jani after asked about the protection of the tree-sits. Jani was extremely amenable and responsive to the succession of questions asked by the numerous activist present for such an monumental occasion.

Each tree grove will become a class 1 wildlife preserve with a class 2 wildlife boundary. Which means that no trees can be cut in the direct grove, they are fully protected. Second-growth trees can, potentially, be harvested in the class 2 zones “to build up growth and allow expansion,” Jani explained to us.

“I still can’t believe it. I’m in shock,” said a Forest Defender who has been involved for over a year at the Fern Gully tree-sit. The overwhelming joy and immense happiness was palpable as the morning fog. Ear-to-ear smiles and warming-loving hugs were exchanged in excess and activists spoke of the years of struggle that it took to save these ancient groves.

Fern Gully was a 5 year struggle and Nanning Creek was started around 3 years ago. Without the determination, perseverance, and infinite resolve of the numerous activists and Forest Defenders involved in the protection of these groves, they wouldn’t have remained standing to this day; they’d be the patios and jacuzzis of affluent homes in the hills.

Thank you Forest Defenders!

“You can call me anytime and I’m totally willing for people to come out to our land in groups of 20 or 30 to review and observe and research any of our Timber Harvest Plans. If people come onto our land, we won’t call the police but remind them of our policy and suggest that they get a permit,” Jani responded when asked about trespassing on now Humboldt Redwood Company land.

“So are the tree-sits safe to come down? Would it be possible to get drive up and carry out the wood and supply,” asked a Forest Defender. “Absolutely. I’ll help any way I can. Just give me a call and we’ll arrange something. You may have access to our roads and garbage bins if needed,” responded Jani in a sincere tone.

Mrs. Jani as well as two Humboldt Redwood Company employees were also present at the road alongside of the Fern Gully entrance. The land owners of the neighboring property were also amongst the entourage, asking questions and sharing stories. “I remember a time when there were 70 logging trucks right in front of my home. I’m happy that the logging will now be limited in this area,” stated the landowner standing next to his wife. He and Jani spoke about salmon conservation and how this is now a new era and things are going to change for the best.

Lodgepole, longtime activist and tree-sitter, spent a great deal of time explaining the various actions that took place over the years; David “Gypsy” Chain, Climber Eric brutality, various tree-sitting campaigns, et al. Jani seemed very interested and told Lodgepole that he has been “carrying around a piece of David “Gypsy” Chain’s clothing for years now, ” since he learned of his tragic death.

“Will there ever be a case when old-growth trees are cut ?” I asked. “No, that’s not likely… if they are [as for building a road], they will be left on the ground and not harvested for revenue,” responded Jani.

A 2500+ year-old tree such as Spooner in Nanning Creek now has the opportunity to grow another 2000+ years. “My heart feels so relieved now,” said Amy who oversaw the Nanning Creek defense. When Fern Gully tree-sitter “Tree” was informed of the news, he jumped in joy and began to dance. “Yes!! Victory! Victory!,” he yelled with his arms in the air (even his one broken arm, too!).
Mike Jani Discussing “Variable Retention” [VR] and Old-Growth Logging Practices

“We protect a 15% minimum! …” from each cut – Mike Jani

Indeed, it truly is a victory for everyone — Humbolt County, Forest Defenders, Environmentalist, and above all, Mother Nature. The entire world benefitted yesterday. However, as much as I would like to call it a day and go to sleep worring less about ancient forests, there are still companies destroying the remaining old-growth and Forest Defenders, not for a minute, are going to rest.