Squaw Valley began a monthlong forest thinning project this week.

More than 5,000 dead or diseased trees will be removed from the Red Dog region of the lower mountain in an effort to improve the natural habitat, reduce the risk of wildfire, and provide better access to tree skiing and riding in that area.

When the project is complete there will be 100 acres of enhanced skiable terrain near Red Dog. The terrain will include three newly designated glade areas — Red Dog Glades, Paris Glades and Heidi’s Glades — as well as a new connector trail on Champs Elysees that will eliminate the current lengthy traverse.

Trees will be taken out via helicopter. Most of the trees will be processed for timber, and the remaining materials will be chipped for future use.