Consider This from NPR Why Wildfire Is Not Just A Western Problem
Jul 8, 2021
In this engaging discussion, Molly Samuel, a reporter for WABE, shares insights on the alarming rise of wildfires beyond the West, specifically focusing on the Southeast. She highlights how forests are becoming increasingly vulnerable due to climate change and urban development. The conversation stresses the need for community awareness and proactive measures, showcasing efforts from regions like Wisconsin to educate homeowners about wildfire risks. Ultimately, it’s a wake-up call for recognizing wildfires as a national concern, not just a Western issue.
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Historical Fire Regimes
- Eastern and Midwestern forests historically burned more frequently than they do now.
- Factors like indigenous fire management practices and natural lightning strikes contributed to this historical fire regime.
Peshtigo Fire and Current Risks
- The 1871 Peshtigo fire in Wisconsin, the deadliest in US history, highlighted the destructive potential of wildfires.
- Fire Chief Mike Folgert emphasizes the risk in the wildland-urban interface, where homes intermingle with forests.
Fire Prevention Efforts in New Hampshire
- District Forest Ranger Jim Innes creates firebreaks in Conway, New Hampshire to protect homes near forests.
- He expresses concern about explaining the loss of a home due to fire.