Rehab Funds Approved for Trinity Ridge Fire

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Federal forest officials say they have approved $4.5 million to restore acreage damaged by the Trinity Ridge Fire in the Boise National Forest. The U.S. Forest Service approved the spending this week for repairs that include watershed protection, road and trail improvements and noxious weed treatments. The work is scheduled to begin immediately and wrap up by this winter. The biggest expense will be an estimated $2.1 million to place straw mulch in areas to protect Bull Trout fisheries, soil stabilization and vegetation recovery in three watersheds. Another $2 million will be used on road improvements and upgrading stream crossings. The Trinity Ridge Fire started on Aug. 3 and burned nearly 229 square miles including popular recreation spots. The fire is projected to be fully contained next week.