Summer 2018
In the hazy days of summer
As wildfires are on the rise throughout the western United States, so is smoke and its effects on health. Here are ten tips to deal with wildfire smoke. » More ...
Wildfire
Fall 2015
In the USFS hot seat
U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell '76 on his WSU education and managing 0wildfires in a warmer climate. » More ...
Fall 2011
How to protect your home from wildfires
If you live in a wildfire-prone area, preparation and forethought is key to your personal safety and preserving your home. You can follow these ten FireSafe steps to prepare your home and land.
(Courtesy of the Washington Department of Natural Resources)
1. Recognize the hazard
Fire is a natural part of our environment. In Spokane County, the grasses and pine forests have been subjected to fires every 3 to 30 years. This is a normal part of our Eco-system. There are more than 300,000 people living in Spokane County and many live in or adjacent to forestland. Understand the steps you … » More …
Fall 2011
Video: Valley View Fires of 2008 and Firewise Community
In 2008, the Valley View fire in the Dishman Hills outside of Spokane burned 13 homes and 1,200 acres. A number of homes survived because residents applied Firewise principles to protect their residences. In this video produced by the Spokane County Conservation District, some of those residents discuss the fire, how they prepared their homes, and what happened during the blaze.
Length: 19 minutes, 21 seconds.
Courtesy Spokane County Conservation District.
Read more about wildfires and communities in “When wildfire comes to town.”
Fall 2011
When wildfire comes to town
Flames ripped through the pines and brush in the Dishman Hills west of Spokane Valley in July 2008, just as they’ve done for thousands of years. A dry wind pushed the fire up a hill, hotter and faster, and straight into a new development of expensive homes, destroying 13 of them and burning 1,200 acres.
The wildfire’s destruction was not surprising or unexpected. But the number of homes and residents who survived the blaze serves as a testament to smart planning, an awareness of inevitable fires, and research into the interaction of fire-prone wildlands and the growing number of people who live near them.
» More …