A Brief Forest Ecosystem History of Shaver Lake

Prior to human intervention, the forest ecosystem at Shaver Lake was in balance. Wildlife, Water, Fire, and Vegetation influenced one another in cyclical relationships. Human intervention, however, disrupted these relationships. This history can loosely be divided into three time periods represented as:

• Prior to 1850 (Native American influence)
• 1850 to 1980 (Fresno Flume and Lumber Co. influence)
• 1980 to present (current Edison Forestry influence)

Each group that settled in the area had different intentions for the natural resources on the land. Public attitude influenced many of the management methods.
 
Prior to 1850, Native Americans were dependent on natural resources for their survival. They managed the forest according to their needs. For example, they used fire as a tool to manipulate the environment for food, game, comfort, pest control, and safety.

Beginning in the 1850s, the Fresno Flume and Lumber Company used the forest to meet public demand for wood products, and the abundance of these resources led to destructive land management practices. Trees were harvested based upon their lumber value without any consideration for the health of the forest ecosystem or future public need. The company left young, over-grown timber stands, large patchwork openings, copious brush fields, and extensive meadows when it sold the forest lands.

Today, the lands around Shaver Lake are managed by Edison Forestry with the intent to restore nature's balance to match pre-1850 influence. Producing a steady income from timber and providing community support are among Edison's highest forest management priorities. Today, Edison works to re-create the balance that has been disrupted for so long.