News & Features
Lockheed Fire Theatens Swanton Pacific Ranch
The Lockheed Fire started August 12, 2009 7:16 pm and burned 7,817 acres. Firefighters achieved 100% containment on August 23, 2009.
Swanton Pacific Ranch personnel returned home after state fire officials lifted a mandatory evacuation order. No one was hurt and no structures were lost.
Further information relating to the impact of the fire will be available on the Swanton website. Visit Swanton's photo album of the event.
Congratulations to Cal Poly Logging Team!
Cal Poly Logging Team hosted the 31st annual California Conclave intercollegiate logging competition at Swanton Pacific Ranch. Cal Poly was one of five western schools that participated in the conclave. Our team placed high in several events. Congratulations to Sarah Harrison who finished second in overall points among female contestants.
Cal Poly Logging Team member Katharine Napier (pictured) shows her technique with a chainsaw in the obstacle pole competition during the event.
Dr. Douglas Piirto Appointed to State Board of Forestry
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today announced the following appointment:
Douglas Piirto, 58, of Atascadero, 
has been appointed to the State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection. He has served as department head of the Natural Resource Management Department at California Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo since 2000.
As department head, Piirto also served as a forest consultant with the U.S. Forest Service in the Sequoia National Forest from 1995 to 2003 and Sierra National Forest from 1990 to 1996. He previously served as a timber management officer and district silviculturist for the Pineridge Ranger District under the U.S. Forest Service from 1980 to 1985. Prior to that, he was forester for the Kings River Ranger District under the U.S. Forest Service from 1977 to 1980. This position requires Senate confirmation.
The appointment to the California State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection is Cal Poly's first. “It's a tremendous honor. I will do my best to fulfill my duties and bring recognition to Cal Poly through my efforts.” That was Douglas Piirto's reaction when he learned of the governor's appointment. Cal Poly President Warren J. Baker observed, “Doug Piirto is an international leader in forestry and timber management. We were proud to learn of his appointment to the Board of Forestry and confident that he will bring to that assignment the same professional dedication and insight he has applied in over two decades of distinguished service at Cal Poly.” Dave Wehner, college dean said, “It is a great honor to have Dr. Piirto appointed to such an important position in the State of California. Doug is a valuable addition to the Board because of his dedication to Forestry education and his extensive knowledge of forest practices.”