Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoia RestorationProject Title: Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoia Restoration The Mariposa Grove is the largest of three remaining giant sequoia groves within Yosemite National Park. The giant sequoia trees, some of the largest and rarest organisms on earth, have been a popular destination within Yosemite since they were first protected in 1864. The project aimed to improve the habitat of the ancient sequoias while simultaneously improving visitor enjoyment of the Grove. When the project began, both natural and cultural resources within the Grove were in a state of disrepair. Giant sequoia habitat was strained from encroaching roads, infrastructure was aging, and overcrowding and commercial activities infringed on visitor’s experience of the ancient trees. After years of feld investigation, planning, design and public input, including collaboration with seven Central California Native American Tribes, the project team produced a restoration plan that reestablishes dynamic ecological processes, builds resilience to stressors caused by a changing climate, enhances visitor experiences of the forest giants and honors the legacy of the Grove. Implementation of the plan was funded and completed in 2018, and restoration and management is ongoing. |