Short Wave Scientists Are Racing To Save Sequoias
Sep 28, 2021
Lauren Sommer, an NPR climate correspondent, brings insight into the catastrophic impact of wildfires on giant sequoias. She reveals that last year's Castle Fire wiped out a staggering 10,600 large sequoias—14% of their population. Sommer discusses how climate change is intensifying these wildfires and creating drought conditions that jeopardize surrounding forests. Scientists are racing against time to save these iconic trees through innovative efforts, including wrapping them in foil, highlighting the urgent need for conservation.
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Sequoia Devastation
- Lauren Sommer visited Sequoia National Forest and witnessed the devastating effects of the Castle Fire.
- Many giant sequoias, including a massive 200-foot-tall monarch, were dead, burned to charcoal.
Unprecedented Sequoia Loss
- The Castle Fire killed up to 10,000 old-growth sequoias, about 14% of the entire population.
- This unprecedented loss is attributed to increasingly extreme wildfires, fueled by climate change and human forest management.
Fire Suppression Paradox
- Sequoias are adapted to fire with thick bark and high branches, historically benefiting from low-grade fires.
- Human fire suppression has led to denser forests, fueling more extreme fires that sequoias cannot survive.