Camp Wildfire Debris Removal

The Camp Fire – one of California’s deadliest and most destructive wildfires in history – burnt over 153,336 acres and destroyed 18,804 structures and prompted the evacuation of more than 30,000 residents. Such widespread damage required a coordinated effort between local, state and federal government, the private contractors and volunteers to support Butte County in its response and long-term recovery efforts.
 
After the fire, Forgen was contracted for hazardous material removal as part of the emergency response fire cleanup. CalRecycle, assigned by Cal OES, oversaw debris removal projects in Butte County to clear fire debris material from parcels where structures were destroyed by the Camp Fire. Forgen, under CalRecycle and the prime contractor’s direction, collaborated closely with property owners and communities to expedite cleanup, fully complying with Butte County, Cal OES, and FEMA project requirements, prioritizing public health, safety, and environmental protection.

Forgen’s crews, in Level C personal protective equipment (PPE), conducted wildfire cleanup alongside multiple contractors as well as state and local agencies. Each employee on the cleanup project underwent OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER training, received a physical exam, and was fit-tested for a respirator before starting work. Safety was paramount throughout the project, with regular safety briefings, site inspections, and adherence to strict safety protocols to protect workers and the community.

Lot cleanup included removing burn ash and debris, recyclable metals, concrete, and excavated soil from burned building areas. Forgen coordinated with CalRecycle and the prime contractor to remove all impacted soil from each lot. Soil samples were taken and tested to ensure all impacted material and debris were removed.

Forgen hauled over 15,000 tons of concrete, contaminated soil, and metal to disposal facilities, including roughly 6,000 cubic yards of asbestos. Additionally, Forgen provided community dust control, erosion control installation, hazardous tree removal, safety fence installation, and vehicle abatement, in addition to property debris removal services.

The cleanup following the Camp Fire in Paradise, CA, was crucial for community recovery. It played a significant role in mitigating environmental risks by removing hazardous materials and restoring the ecosystem. Additionally, it helped prevent further damage. From a public health perspective, the cleanup operations were vital in reducing exposure to harmful materials, ensuring the safety of residents and cleanup crews.

Debris clearance also had a profound impact, paving the way for the reconstruction of homes and critical infrastructure. This, in turn, facilitated economic recovery and offered a sense of hope and resilience to the community. Overall, the cleanup operations were pivotal in restoring a sense of normalcy to the town of Paradise and the lives of its residents after the devastating wildfire, marking a crucial step towards rebuilding and revitalizing the affected area.