SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. — The U.S. Forest Service began aspen restoration work Monday near the bike path running behind Pope and Baldwin beaches adjacent to California State Route 89.

A Forest Service contractor will use mechanical equipment to remove conifer trees from aspen stands in the area during the next ten days, hauling away most of the material, according to a statement from the agency.

Some limbs may be piled outside the aspen stands and burned at a later date.

Aspen stands need abundant sunshine to thrive. Shade tolerant conifers threaten aspen communities by overtaking the stands, competing for water, sunlight and nutrients. Removing the encroaching conifers will improve aspen stand health, which will provide important habitat for plants and wildlife, according to the statement.

The project area totals approximately 4.6 acres between Taylor Creek and Spring Creek Road.

Because the project involves use of heavy equipment and the felling of trees, access to the bike path may temporarily be restricted.

For a project description visit: www.fs.usda.gov/goto/ltbmu/AspenRestoration