2009 Fire Ecology Institute for Educators

Fire Ecology Institute 2009

Attending the 2009 Fire Ecology Institute in Durango, CO, was not only a great opportunity to learn about fire ecology, but it was an opportunity to network with educators and professionals in a neighboring state. One of the most beneficial parts about the institute was learning about how resources are managed in Colorado. It is important to compare how resources are managed here in New Mexico to our neighboring states; what is effective, what is not, etc. It was impressive to see how the BLM and Forest Service have partnered in Durango. It will be interesting to see how the partnership between the two federal agencies plays out.

Another highlight of the institute was the many opportunities to be in the field with experts. Coming from California, I have not been formally educated about the local flora of New Mexico and Colorado. The various presentations about tree species, non-native species and wildflowers were great. As an educator who takes students into the field, knowing the different plant species is very important.

Although I have taken multiple classes in order to become a certified wildland firefighter, I have never had the opportunity to actually visit areas that have been previously burned. Visiting the Missionary Ridge Fire and the Valley Fire was really valuable. The fire behavior during the Missionary Ridge Fire was remarkable. In addition, learning about the debris flows after the fires was really stunning.

My favorite part of the whole experience was when we visited Lemon Reservoir. John was an awesome presenter. It is amazing to see what can be done with limited knowledge and resources and a little creativity. It was also great to get a perspective from someone who is not a professional in the field, as far as fire rehabilitation goes. He should definitely be on the presenter list for the next institute.

I really enjoyed the student activities outside where we determined which fuels burn the best and how fire spread is affected by slope. I think these tools can be very useful not only in teaching students about fire but educating adults as well. Throughout the institute I found myself brainstorming ideas about how I can reach out to the communities most concerned with fire and educate them about what they can do to protect their homes. I have already being planning a local event in the East Mountains of Albuquerque that will educate the public about State Land Office thinning projects in the area and local resources to help homeowners create defensible space on their property.

Overall, I found the institute to be very informative and useful. The guest presenters, the resources given out and activities in the field were definitely the most beneficial.