Wildfire Recovery in California

Why do we love our forests?

They protect the clean water millions of people rely on.

They’re home to incredible wildlife and plant diversity.

They give us a place to explore, learn, and reconnect with nature.

Landscapes like this remind us how powerful intact wilderness can be. Here, rivers, forests, and mountains shape each other naturally, creating ecosystems that thrive.

The U.S. Forest Service is at the core of so much of this work. 🌲
They’re not only leading the activities that keep forests healthy, but also sharing vital environmental knowledge—making sure communities understand and stay connected to the landscapes around them.

Planning a camping trip in a national forest? Here are a few do’s and don’ts to help prevent wildfires:

✅ Do:
– Use designated fire rings or stoves
– Fully extinguish your campfire before leaving
– Follow local fire restrictions

🚫 Don’t:
– Leave flames unattended
– Burn during

This is one of many of our favorite landscapes in California. Did you know that California’s forests play a crucial role in supplying much of the state’s fresh water? They help capture, filter, and regulate water flow, supporting both ecosystems and communities downstream.

Ongoing maintenance is a key part of our work, including activities like clearing fallen branches to reduce the risk of future wildfires.

Our Youth Ranger Program plays an important role in these efforts, helping to keep our forests healthy and safe.

Conifers don’t just survive in tough environments—they often thrive in them.

Many conifer species, like pines and spruces, have needle-shaped leaves coated with a waxy layer that helps conserve water, making them remarkably well adapted to cold, dry, or nutrient-poor conditions.

Redwood National and State Parks in Northern California are home to the tallest trees on Earth—some reaching over 110 meters.

What’s equally remarkable is that these giants thrive in thin, nutrient-poor soils, relying on coastal fog to capture moisture.

The Vital Role of California’s Forests

California’s forests are essential for clean air, water supply, and biodiversity.

They store carbon, support diverse wildlife, and protect watersheds that provide water for millions. Beyond their ecological value, they offer recreation and

Preserving forest habitats and watersheds is vital for maintaining Southern California's landscape. Managing land that supports endangered species ensures a balanced ecosystem. Since National Forests provide over half of California’s water, the local water quality and supply depend

Right tree, right place
We plant native species that can help enhance our forest's resilience.

The Joshua tree, emblematic of the Mojave Desert, is adapted to the harsh, arid environment of the Southwestern United States. With spiky leaves atop twisted branches, it endures extreme temperatures and scant rainfall, serving as a vital part of the desert ecosystem.

The weathered bristlecone pines in California’s White Mountains epitomize resilience, surviving for millennia in high-altitude, harsh conditions.

California's forests offer a stunning mosaic of landscapes, ranging from majestic mountain peaks to the serene valleys cradling rivers below.

Wildfires aren't the only danger to forests; beetles also pose a significant risk to their health. These pests can devastate large areas by killing trees, which in turn can increase the likelihood of fires and reduce biodiversity. Monitoring and managing beetle populations are essential