As I write this, rain douses the area, the beat of drops punctuated by occasional thunder and lightning. The wet landscape looks cyber-brilliant with exquisitely defined shades of greens and high-desert dirt that seems satiated, at least for now.
The rain is a blessing, really, since fire season is already upon us at this early date; this spring is the driest since record keeping began in 1910. On a positive note, helping hands in the form of CAL FIRE are re-entering the region (see story here).
After this moisture free-for-all, we will be back on track for a blisteringly dry spring and summer. It is crucial for all of us to be vigilant in fire prevention. According to the National Park Service, approximately 90 percent of wildland fires in the United States are caused by humans. Dedicate significant time to defensible space this year. Consult with the experts. Be fire-smart, i.e., don’t ignite anything. And don’t be afraid to speak out when an activity by your friend, neighbor, family, or a stranger threatens the fire safety of all.
California wildfires are notorious in strength and longevity. Many scientists say this is due to 1) climate change, 2) fire suppression policies, and 3) poor forest management. Before so many people lived in the Tahoe area, fires burned until they went out naturally, but an aversion to the danger to people and structures led to policies that reduce or extinguish fires as soon as possible. Meanwhile, we chopped down much of the forest. The result — a dense woodland of trees all the same age — is a recipe for wildfire disaster.
In our state, we live with the unswerving threat of fire, yet our forests have depended upon fire for their health for ages. The people have a mixed mission: On one hand, it’s imperative to be fire safe to safeguard our human resources. On the other hand, as citizens and residents, we must research, consider, and support efforts to help forests return to their natural cycles.
On a less somber note, this edition marks one of our favorite special features: the Summer Lovin’ Festival Guide, here. All the summer festivals, from all over the region, all in one place. This comprehensive roundup has something for everyone, from the hippie to the Shakespearean, from the wide-eyed kid to those people seasoned in life. Keep this edition to help plan your summer.
Festivals are just one of our passions at Moonshine Ink. Keep on keepin’ on, Tahoe.
~ Mayumi Elegado
