An Extension Perspective on Community Engagement and the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire in the Columbia River Gorge, OR

Abstract: The risk of destructive wildfires appears to be increasing across the West due to growth in the wildland urban interface, increasing frequency of severe fire weather, and increasing fuel loads. It is a high priority... [ view full abstract ]

Abstract: The risk of destructive wildfires appears to be increasing across the West due to growth in the wildland urban interface, increasing frequency of severe fire weather, and increasing fuel loads. It is a high priority for Extension educators applying science-based information to engage people in order to: 1) prepare homes and communities for wildfire and 2) manage adjacent wildlands for fire resilience. Efforts on both of these fronts are impeded by conflicting perceptions and controversy over fire science and forest management. This is exemplified by issues emerging from recent fires (2017) such as the Eagle Creek fire in the Columbia River Gorge and the Chetco Bar fire in southwestern Oregon. This presentation will illustrate the challenges and discuss strategies for successful community engagement and wildfire preparedness across boundaries.

Best of the West - Session no. 127

Moderator: Catrin Edgeley