By autumn 2012, Yosemite National Park is expected to begin clearing the first of 93 historic vistas that have been blocked by tangles of trees and brush over time.

But before the chain saws and burning torches come out, there will be opportunity for the public to comment in spring.

The park will post a list of the first 24 sites and take comments, according to officials. For a look at the planning documents, go here.

I wrote a story a year ago, saying the work is intended to do more than just provide better gawking for Yosemite visitors. It might make roads safer by spreading out crowds in different places around the park.

One vista-clearing project in 2008 met with public approval. Crews took down three tall pine trees at Tunnel View, the place with the jaw-dropping panorama that includes El Capitan, Half Dome and Bridalveil Fall. It opened up the view considerably, and people liked it.

If you're familiar with the many planning efforts in Yosemite Valley, this one will not replace any part of the planning for restoration and renovation in the Merced River corridor. The planning for those vista cleanups will be part of the long-running river plan.