What is a primary goal of California's forest management strategy?

A primary goal of California's forest management strategy is to improve forest health and reduce fire hazards. This focus is essential due to the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires that the state has experienced in recent years. By prioritizing forest health, management practices aim to restore ecosystems, promote biodiversity, and ensure that forests can withstand the pressures of pests, diseases, and climate change.

Improving forest health involves various practices, such as thinning overcrowded trees, removing dead or diseased vegetation, and conducting controlled burns. These measures not only enhance the resilience of the forest but also help reduce the fuel load that contributes to severe wildfires. In turn, this proactive approach significantly decreases the risk of catastrophic wildfires that can threaten both human lives and property.

While the other options may address aspects related to forestry, they do not align with the primary focus of California's current forest management strategy aimed at minimizing wildfire risk while enhancing the overall ecosystem.