How to Volunteer After the Station Fire

We've seen, smelt and been saddened by the destruction of the deadly Station Fire in the Angeles National Forest. Containment is expected next week and soon after a new phase will be entered into: rebirth. "After we get in there and assess what damages need to be repaired, there will be opportunity for volunteers to help the Forest Service repair some of this stuff," explained Howard Okamoto, the Recreation Officer for the Los Angeles River Ranger District, which was the area most affected by the blaze. He said activities will likely include tree plantings and trail work, but once a list of needs is developed, more projects opportunities will be announced. In the meantime, those interested in volunteering should contact Okamoto to be placed on a list to be notified when projects are ready to go. He can be reached at 818-899-1900 x229 or better yet by e-mail at hokamoto [at] fs.fed.us.