If you live anywhere that gets smoky during fire season, you've probably heard officials mention "preparedness levels." Preparedness levels are the government's way of telling us how serious things are getting with wildfires nationwide. Let's break down the National Preparedness Level (NPL). What Exactly Is NPL? Think of the National Preparedness Level as a thermometer for wildfire...
High in the rocky outcrops of Buck Rock Lookout, a sharp whistle cuts through the mountain air. This distinctive alarm call belongs to the yellow-bellied marmot, one of the region's most charismatic alpine residents. Mountain-Built Rodents Yellow-bellied marmots (Marmota flaviventris) are North America's largest squirrels, weighing 3-11 pounds depending on the season. These chunky herbivores inhabit elevations...
Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Park will conduct a carefully managed prescribed fire in a designated section of the Big Stump Sequoia grove, beginning on Monday, June 23rd. This initiative is part of their ongoing efforts to promote healthy forest ecosystems and reduce the risk of larger, uncontrolled wildfires in the area. If conditions remain favorable, fire...
A message from Buck Rock firewatcher and Foundation President at the end of fire season 2023....