Just got word that the Federal Appeals court struck down the UC versus FEMA case and as a result has affirmed the HCN versus FEMA settlement agreement. With this ruling the Appeals Court brings this chapter of the conflict to a close. UC's attempt to overturn the HCN versus FEMA settlement agreement has been decisively shut down. Thanks to all for your support!

For those interested in better understanding the legal fights that HCN has been pursuing for the better part of 10 years, please take a look at the Federal 9th Circuit Appeals Court arguments made on Thursday. This session is available at https://www.ca9.uscourts.gov/media/view_video.php?pk_vid=0000018806 Of particular interest are the arguments made by the DOJ attorney on behalf of FEMA, which we think helps explain the nexus between the HCN versus FEMA suit and the HCN vers

UC just released a notice of determination for their vegetation management plan EIR for the Hill Campus. This action starts the 30 days clock for any legal challenges. HCN is reviewing the situation and will make a determination as to any potential legal challenges shortly. As always we thank the community for your support in keeping our forests alive.

It's expected that the UC regents will formally certify this EIR February 9, beginning the 30 day period for legal challenges. At this time HCN is determining whether to initiate a legal challenge. Public support may make the difference. The final EIR can be found at: https://capitalstrategies.berkeley.edu/hill-campus For anyone interested in better understanding the role of tall trees for fire risk mitigation in the east bay hills please check out the US Forest Service's as