New research led by Oregon State University has unveiled alarming projections for the future of forests in the western Pacific Northwest. The study, published in JGR Biogeosciences, emphasizes the urgent need for adaptation strategies to protect the region’s socio-ecological systems.
Led by Alex Dye, a faculty research associate in the OSU College of Forestry, along with collaborators from the U.S. Forest Service, the report presents a clear picture of the potential impact of climate change on forest fire activity. The study analyzed 23 million acres of forest land in Oregon and Washington west of the Cascade Range crest, using wildfire simulations to predict changing fire patterns in the region.
Based on simulations presented in the research, fire activity in the Olympic Mountains, the Puget Lowlands, and the western Oregon Cascades could increase by at least twofold compared to the previous thirty years.
Additionally, the study emphasizes the potential impact of increased fire activity on the region’s vital resources, including drinking water sources, timber reserves, biodiversity, and carbon stocks.
The research serves as a wake-up call, urging the public and stakeholders to reevaluate their perception of the Westside as a low-risk area.
As the threat of wildfires continues to increase, Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz, in collaboration with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), has announced the local launch of the Wildfire Ready Neighbors initiative. This program aims to enhance community preparedness before the impending fire season. It acknowledges that wildfires are no longer confined to eastern Washington and urges every resident to proactively protect their homes and properties from wildfire risks.
“Wildfires are no longer just an issue for eastern Washington – no one is immune from the impacts. With hotter and drier conditions, every resident must act now to prepare their home and property for wildfire risks,” she said. “Wildfires do not respect property lines. By working together, we can build a stronger, more proactive community.”
Commissioner Franz stressed the importance of collective action in building a more resilient community facing mounting wildfire threats. Through the Wildfire Ready Neighbors program, residents and property owners can access expert guidance and receive customized plans to reduce wildfire risks through practical measures such as clearing flammable brush, maintaining roofs and gutters, and creating defensible spaces around their homes.
“The Wildfire Ready Neighbors initiative enhances existing efforts by fostering greater community involvement,” said Chief Dennis Doan of Gig Harbor Fire & Medic One. “This program highlights the importance of teamwork among fire departments, local conservation districts, community organizations, and residents to strengthen Gig Harbor’s resilience against wildfire risks. We must prepare now to ensure our community is ready to face these threats.”
What can rural residents in the Pacific Northwest do to prevent wildfire? Here are the key points to keep in mind:
- Talk 1:1 with your local wildfire experts and schedule a free Wildfire Ready Home Visit to assess your home’s wildfire preparedness.
- Encourage your neighbors to prepare for wildfires, create a joint action plan, and offer assistance.
- Remove all flammable items within 5 feet of your home’s edges and create a non-flammable perimeter around your home.
- Protect your home against embers using metal mesh to screen exterior vents and clear gutters.
- Maintain your yard by keeping flammables away, maintaining lawns and native grasses, pruning trees, and managing vegetation.
- Regularly inspect and/or replace your roof to ensure it is fire-resistant.
- Make an emergency supply kit and evacuation plan, and practice it with your household.
- Install reflective address signs with 4-inch lettering to aid first responders during emergencies, and consider volunteering with your local fire district.
Residents can also request a free Wildfire Ready Home Visit, where a wildfire expert will visit their property and develop a tailored action plan for wildfire preparedness.
