On Fire

Months after the federal government initiated widespread Forest Service layoffs and stalled funding, ripple effects are still disrupting wildfire preparedness and fuels reduction in Tahoe.

By banning fire from federal forests, dense woods of dying trees and undergrowth now fuel intense, fast-moving wildfires that are difficult to control without strategic thinning and prescribed burns. But there is a way forward.

Our communities are ramping up wildfire preparedness through two key designations — Firewise and fire adapted — with dozens of neighborhoods organizing efforts. Is yours?

The recent Los Angeles wildfires have underscored the growing vulnerability of homeowners in the urban-wildland interface, who often have to rely on the California FAIR Plan for fire coverage. Homeowners need to be aware of the plan’s significant limitations.

Lane Endicott was in the midst of her sixth summer as a fire spotter atop Verdi Peak when she spied a column of smoke in the distance, the beginning of what was the Donner Ridge Fire of 1960.

The region needs more sawmills. Klondike Flat residents don’t think one belongs in their neighborhood.

The water district in Alpine Meadows last year terminated its contract with North Tahoe Fire to operate the fire station in the valley. Read more to find out why, and the future of fire protection in Alpine Meadows.

Automation can be a useful tool when it comes to hardening your home against wildfire.

SWEP, Truckee Fire Protection District, and Donner Trail Elementary students join together to carry out defensible-space work for a couple in need.

A lack of affordable wildfire insurance coverage is plaguing Truckee/North Tahoe residents. For those who implement defensible space tactics on their properties, options are being explored, along with other solutions.