forestscapes crew working

About

Learn more about the ForestScapes mission, our qualifications and process.

About Forestscapes

Our Mission

ForestScapes LLC is Northern California’s premier wildfire prevention and ecological restoration partner. Based in McKinleyville, we combine deep regional expertise with cutting-edge practices to deliver year-round vegetation management and forestry services that protect communities, restore forest health, and reduce wildfire risk.

Unlike traditional logging firms, ForestScapes specializes in pre-commercial thinning, fuels reduction, and prescribed fire, focusing on the under-addressed yet critical vegetation layers that contribute most to catastrophic fire behavior. Our ISA-certified arborists, skilled forestry crew, and heavy equipment fleet ensure we meet the urgent demand for high-efficiency, environmentally responsible forest management.

Backed by years of successful partnerships with federal, state, tribal, and nonprofit entities, ForestScapes delivers unmatched operational flexibility, safety, and commitment to ecological stewardship.

Whether it’s hand-thinning steep slopes, deploying masticators across fuel breaks, or educating the next generation of forest workers, we are the go-to team for comprehensive restoration across Humboldt, Del Norte, Trinity, Mendocino, and Lake counties.

ForestScapes – Resilient Forests. Safer Communities. Local Roots.

Our Team

Who We Are

Joe Snipes, owner of ForestScapes LLC

Joe Snipes, Owner

I was born and raised in Crescent City. Growing up in the woods has helped me develop a desire to focus my work in the forest. My passions are being outdoors and spending time with my family. I have many years in rural forestry restoration, permaculture, and wildland fire experience. I love the North Coast and plan on calling it my home for many years to come. 

Qualifications:

  • California Licensed Contractor (D49 – Tree Service): #1075353 – Verify license
  • International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist: #WE13357A – Verify certification
  • Humboldt County FLASH (Fire Adapted and Safe Homes) inspector
  • Tree Care Industry Association – Certified Tree Care Specialist
  • Resource Advisory Committee for Six Rivers National Forest
  • Industry Cooperator for Six Rivers National Forest
  • FAA Certified Drone Pilot
  • Degree in Forestry & Natural Resources College of the Redwood Eureka, 2017 with Honors
  • Licensed Timber Operator – B013609
  • NWCG Wildland Fire Certifications – I-100, 1-300, S130, S131, S190, S211, S212, S215, S219, S271, S290, S410, L180

Victor Perez, Foreman

At 26 years young, Victor was raised in Orange County along with 4 other siblings. He grew up playing soccer. He enjoys fishing and anything outdoors. He is currently studying to get his arborist certification. He has been a crucial component to the ForestScapes team for 2+ years and hopes to make forestry/wildland fire his career. 

Victor Perez, foreman of ForestScapes LLC

We Will Work to Meet Each Client’s Goals By Identifying:

What the client’s objectives are
How they want to achieve objectives
Possible constraints
Contingency planning
Follow up planning
Contact Us
Available Grants

There are federal, state and local grants that can cover a large portion of your costs. We can assist with applying for and facilitating these grants. Learn more about cost share programs.

Follow Up Planning

We want to encourage that you have a follow up plan that insures your property will be fire safe for years to come.

Capabilities Statement

View or download our Capabilities Statement.

2025 ForestScapes Capabilties StatementDownload