Restoration

Old-growth juniper is defined as juniper that was present before the migration of white European settlers into the region beginning in the mid- to late 1800s (i.e., trees greater than 130 years of age). Because many of these trees were already old centuries before European settlement, they are considered to be an integral part of the native Central Oregon landscape, as opposed to the recently established post-settlement juniper type which is more a manifestation of recent human and climatic influences.

Restoration Map (PDF)

These old growth juniper stands are unique because they are large and relatively contiguous in area and contain a higher percentage of larger and older trees relative to other juniper woodlands in the larger Great Basin landscape.

There are also 207 acres of material sites (cinder pits or stockpile areas) in 5 different sites within the CBRA, along with a Federal Aviation Administration site on the southernmost butte.

Old growth juniper was mapped for the CBRA using aerial photography and field visits. Using this data, a rough estimate of 20,612 acres, or 65% of the CBRA, contains old growth juniper. Areas within the CBRA were mapped to show areas of high priority for restoration/treatments. These areas are shown on the Restoration Map.

The restoration map also shows the boundaries of the two fuels treatment projects adjacent to or within the Cline Buttes area. The intent of these projects is to use mechanical or prescribed fire to create defensible space and reduce the risk of crown fire.