Yosemite Plan To Restore Sequoia Grove Moves Ahead

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK, Calif. (AP) — An ambitious plan to restore and improve the health of the largest grove of giant sequoias in Yosemite National Park is moving forward with the release Thursday of an environmental impact statement for the project.

The tourist site at the south end of the park includes asphalt parking lots that cover the sprawling roots of the giant trees, as well as tram service and roads through the grove.

Park officials hope to restore wetlands, remove the parking lot, reduce noise and add shuttle service for visitors to reach the trees.

Park spokesman Scott Gediman said the three-year project will be paid for by $20 million from the Yosemite Conservancy and $4 million from the National Park Service.

Officials hope to break ground for the park's 150th anniversary next June.

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