Science shows that demographics and funding impact wildfire resilience
![Valley area that has fire mitigation measures](/sites/default/files/styles/thumbnail/public/2022-11/fire_adapted_homes_in_colorado_near_waldo_canyon_fire_courtesy_photo_by_kari_greer.jpg?itok=XRo3UayA)
America’s forests are in a state of fire emergency. Nearly 25% of the contiguous U.S. is at risk of severe wildfire, with Western landscapes bearing the brunt.
The areas at greatest risk are those where forests and communities meet, often referred to as the wildland urban interface. These beautiful locales are where more and more people choose to call home…
wildfire, fire, resilience, science, fire science, Grants
Monitoring the giants: Tracking resilience of giant sequoias after wildfires
![Collage of pictures about the different tools that the natural resource specialists use in the field](/sites/default/files/styles/thumbnail/public/2022-08/postfire_monitoring_sequoias_gear_collage-sequoia-07.jpg?itok=8cg_VaSi)
The tag designates a witness tree, which serves as a survey tool. Using three witness trees to triangulate the center of the plot makes it easier for future crews to find the site for monitoring work. (USDA Forest Service photo by Jamie Hinrichs)
Editor’s Note: The U.S. Department of…
sequoia, wildfires, fire science, resilience, hazards
Prescribed fire science: Why it’s needed now more than ever
![A picture of a Forest worker using a drip torch to start a prescribed fire to treat a forest area.](/sites/default/files/styles/thumbnail/public/2022-03/A%20forester%20conducts%20a%20prescribed%20fire%20to%20clear%20underbrush%20in%20Florida%E2%80%99s%20Osceola%20National%20Forest.%20USDA%20Forest%20Service%20photo%20by%20Susan%20Blake..jpg?itok=IQn2YgfX)
Editor’s note: The USDA Forest Service recently announced a 10-year strategy to confront the wildfire crisis and improve forest resilience. Increasing fuels treatments will be paramount to create healthier forests and reduce wildfire risk to communities. The Forest Service’s Southern Research Station routinely researches the science of prescribed fire and why it’s needed now more than ever.
Much…