When wildfires threaten every summer, local action isn’t just helpful—it’s critical. Nevada County is stepping up with bold fuel-reduction projects and community partnerships that aim to protect residents and natural resources alike. Here’s what you need to know about the latest wildfire mitigation funding and efforts in our area.

Lower Deer Creek–Penn Valley Mitigation Project

The county has secured a FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant to launch the Lower Deer Creek–Penn Valley Hazardous Fuels Reduction Project, which focuses on approximately 1,011 acres near Lake Wildwood in Penn Valley. Phase 1 kicked off with planning, followed by outreach, survey collection, and treatment design.

In total, about 520 parcels are part of this public–private collaboration—shielding over 3,200 parcels within a two-mile radius from dangerous wildfire zones. This level of wildfire resilience was prioritized in the 2024 evacuation study and 2025 Community Wildfire Protection Plan.

Local officials emphasize that this is a community‑driven project—residents first proposed the idea, which eventually secured federal funding. Now they’re relying on folks to return Right-of-Entry (ROE) forms so contractors can complete environmental surveys and plan treatments.

Woodpecker Ravine Shaded Fuel Break

Another major project underway is the Woodpecker Ravine shaded fuel break, funded through a $2.1 million CAL FIRE Wildfire Prevention grant. This initiative targets approximately 410 acres—stretching above Grass Valley neighborhoods like Alta Sierra and Empire Mine State Historic Park. The goal is to interrupt wildfires before they enter densely populated areas, especially along evacuation corridors like Highway 49 and Mount Olive Road.

Treated vegetation will be hand‑cut or mechanically masticated to clear flammable brush without harming mature trees. If funds permit, an additional 176 acres may be treated. These shaded fuel breaks not only safeguard homes—but also set a regional standard for resilience planning.

This project builds on past FEMA efforts via the Building Resilient Infrastructure & Communities (BRIC) grant program—part of a broader initiative to promote home hardening, defensible space, and public education.

Why Mitigation Matters

Protect lives and property:
These mitigation projects significantly improve response times and evacuation safety.

Preserve natural services:
Projects around watersheds and forest ecosystems help maintain clean water and biodiversity.

Community matching contributions:
Homeowners can contribute to the grant’s 25% match through volunteer defensible space clearing. Hours and costs count toward in-kind match totals documented via the Firewise Communities network.

Long-term resilience:
These projects are meant to last decades—with maintenance, community cooperation, and ongoing public funding support.

Wildfires may be fierce, but Nevada County’s response is fiercer. From Penn Valley to Grass Valley and Bitney Springs, these projects reflect the community’s commitment to safety—and natural stewardship. Whether you’re a property owner, renter, or concerned citizen, understanding and supporting these efforts is how we keep our foothill home strong.