Historically, fire has been an essential tool for Indigenous peoples in North America. For thousands of years, they practiced controlled burns to manage landscapes, enhance biodiversity, and prevent catastrophic wildfires. However, with the advent of colonization, these practices were forcibly suppressed, leading to the degradation of forest ecosystems and the disruption of Indigenous cultural traditions. The suppression of fire has had lasting impacts, contributing to the unhealthy, overgrown forests that are now more prone to intense and uncontrollable wildfires.
These wildfires, exacerbated by climate change, have severe consequences for both rural and urban communities. As we’ve seen in recent years, the smoke from these fires can travel hundreds of miles, affecting the air quality and health of millions of people. The economic toll is equally devastating, with billions of dollars lost due to health care costs, lost productivity, and the destruction of homes and infrastructure.
The LTWC’s fire program is a response to these challenges. The LTWC works together with local and regional partners to reintroduce prescribed burns, honoring Indigenous fire stewardship practices, to restore the natural balance of our forests. This approach not only reduces the risk of catastrophic wildfires but also supports the cultural and economic vitality of Indigenous communities. By working together, we can create a more resilient landscape that benefits everyone.
Our fire program is rooted in the belief that restoration is most effective when it is collaborative and informed by a deep understanding of the land and its history. We partner with local landowners, businesses, and Indigenous leaders to implement fire management practices that are both ecologically sound and culturally respectful. This collaboration is key to achieving our mission of restoring the Long Tom Watershed and ensuring its health for future generations.
In an era where the threat of wildfire and smoke looms large, it is crucial that we return to practices that have sustained these landscapes for millennia. By supporting the LTWC’s fire program, we are not only protecting our forests but also reviving a tradition of stewardship that honors the wisdom of those who have cared for this land long before us. Together, we can create a future where our forests are healthy, our communities are safe, and our economy is strong.
The Traditional Ecological Inquiry Program (TEIP), a vital LTWC hosted program, immerses Indigenous youth in Traditional fire ecology and cultural fire practices, making it a key partner in restoring and stewarding natural habitats using cultural fire. Additionally, during seasonal internships, Indigenous youth learn about hazel tending, planting camas and tarweed, and preparing oak and prairie habitats for the reintroduction of fire. Led by Tribal Elders, fire specialists, and Native educators, TEIP offers hands-on education on the role of cultural fire in managing biodiversity, wildfire resilience, and climate change.
Your support will help empower Indigenous youth to reconnect with their heritage, learn traditional land stewardship, and lead the way in cultural fire practices!