Reflection by CB

The 2013 Fire Ecology Institute has changed the way I look at forests, fires, and watersheds.  We were lucky enough to be in the Waldo Canyon burn area and see the changes in the ecosystem and watershed.  We got to speak with CUSP and many other influential scientists, activists, and educators that are trying to make the public aware of issues surrounding fire, even long after fires have been through the area.  I learned throughout this institute that our jobs as educators are very important in regards to wildfires.  We as humans have a very strong historical relationship with fire and it will take a lot of time and education to evolve that relationship and gain a better understanding.  Fear and misinformation leads the way in how most communities see fire.  Informing our future generations on prescribed burning, fire mitigation, forest succession and ecology, and wildfire habits will break that cycle.  When the public understands these different concepts, decisions will be made that will create healthier forests with wildfire a natural part of its cycle.