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Thinning operation seeks to squash beetles in Prescott National Forest

The Prescott National Forest will undergo thinning operations with hopes of squashing one pest that’s plagued the area for years.

When trees are in a weakened state, such as by drought, bark beetles take advantage.

They burrow into the layer where new bark is produced, and lay their eggs, effectively killing the tree.

The Prescott National Forest will thin 76 acres of land in order to reduce bark beetle outbreaks and improve the health of the forest.

The project is focused in the Chino Valley Ranger District, where the operation is expected to last for 2 months.

Nick Sanchez is a senior producer for KJZZ's The Show. He joined the station as an intern during the spring of 2022, where he developed a passion for audio storytelling in the Valley.