PPIC: State Makes Progress on Wildfire and Forest Health Policy – YubaNet

Californians are gearing up for what could be another dangerous wildfire season, particularly in light of significant drought conditions. Grasses, shrubs, and forests are drying out early due to a lack of precipitation, providing potential fuel for wildfires. Red flag warningswhen high winds and low humidity increase fire riskhave already been issued this year across broad swaths of the state. Small spring wildfires have put firefighters and communities on edge.

Is the state prepared for another bad wildfire season? And how much progress has been made to improve the resilience of vulnerable communities and headwater forests?

Californias wildfire problem is multi-faceted and complex, and is expected to accelerate in a warming climate. The governor and legislaturehave pushed for reformsto improve the states resilience to wildfire. High-priority reforms include:

Over the past few years, wildfires have caused huge damage to communities and infrastructure, from the mountainous headwater forests to coastal metropolitan areas. State leadership is scrambling to address these challenges with both short- and long-term solutions. Actions taken now can help the state adapt to living with fire.

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PPIC: State Makes Progress on Wildfire and Forest Health Policy - YubaNet