Zeke Lunder discussed the Garnet and Blue fires, noting the Garnet fire’s active status and the Blue fire’s recent growth to 1,000 acres. He highlighted the challenges of managing fires in the northern Sierra due to strong east winds and the impact on old-growth forests. Zeke mentioned the upcoming interview with Jamie Allen, a biologist from Siad Valley, to discuss the Blue fire’s context and management. He also touched on the broader issues of forest management, including the use of herbicides and the impact of fire suppression on wildlife and landscapes. The conversation emphasized the complexity and unpredictability of wildfire management.
Garnet Fire Update and Upcoming Guest
- Zeke Lunder welcomes everyone and mentions it’s the last days of August, a typical time for autumn winds to begin blowing.
- He discusses the Garnet Fire, which was very active today, and the Blue fire, which is also active in the Klamath.
- He announces Jamie Allen, a biologist from Seiad Valley, will be a guest on Tuesday to discuss the Blue Fire in detail.
Garnet Fire Map and Conditions
- Zeke reviews the Garnet Fire map, noting the infrared imagery showing cooling areas and active spots.
- Explains the geographical context of the fire, including the High Sierra and the impact of fall winds.
- Discusses the challenges of managing fires in the northern Sierra due to strong east winds – a factor which is less of an issue in the Central and Southern Sierra.
- Mentions the fire’s progression towards Indian Rock and its establishment in the Teakettle Experimental Forest.
Impact of Fire on Old Growth Forests
- Zeke highlights the impact of the fire on the Teakettle Experimental Forest, which was planned for a large controlled burn.
- Describes the fire’s progression and the resulting smoke column, referring to it as a “nuclear bomb.”
- Discusses the documentation of the fire through new webcams, which provide a comprehensive view of the catastrophe.
- Reflects on the societal and governmental responsibility in our current megafire crisis.
Blue Fire and Historical Context
- Zeke transitions to discussing the Blue Fire, noting its recent significant growth.
- Provides historical context, including the 2014 Happy Camp Complex fire and the impact of logging in the 70s and 80s.
- Explains the concept of late successional reserves (LSRs) and the challenges of managing forests with a mix of old growth and logged areas.
Impact of Fire on Wildlife and Landscape
- Zeke discusses the impact of fire on wildlife, noting that many animals can adapt and survive.
- Shows a video of a fire moving slowly, allowing wildlife to escape.
- Explains the benefits of fire for deer, as it creates new growth and reduces dense underbrush.
- Reflects on the long-term impacts of fire suppression and the need for a more natural approach to forest management.
Post-Fire Landscape and Management
- Zeke discusses the post-fire landscape, including the impact of herbicides and clear-cutting/salvage logging on the environment.
- Highlights the challenges of managing large areas of land and the need for a more holistic approach.
- Mentions the impact of postfire logging on deer migration in the Chester area, and the need for corridors in the postfire landscape.
- Reflects on the importance of building alliances and connecting people who care about forests, wildlife, and hunting.
Forest Service and Land Management
- Zeke discusses the challenges faced by the Forest Service in managing land and fires.
- Reflects on the need for a more progressive and adventurous approach to land management.
- Mentions the impact of fire on private timberland and the economic pressures which drive business-based land management decisions.
- Highlights the importance of public engagement in forestry and fire policy.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
- Zeke reflects on the importance of embracing fire as a natural part of the landscape.
- Mentions the importance of building alliances and connecting people who care about forests, wildlife, and hunting.
- Encourages people to talk about their experiences and to continue building a community of people who want to learn from eachother.