Date/Time
Date(s) - 03/07/2026
9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Location
Columbia College Dogwood Building,
Categories
The Tuolumne Fire Safe Council and the League of Women Voters of the Mother Lode have partnered to sponsor an event focused on educating residents on the increasing risk of wildfire.
Objective: To educate residents on the increasing risk of wildfire threat to our homes, businesses, infrastructure, and natural resources. To improve knowledge and understanding of the many factors that influence wildfire behavior and how we can learn to live with wildfire through adaptation and participation of all.
Through the generous support of the Columbia College Foundation and Black Oak Casino Resort the Living with Fire Series has become a reality.
The event is FREE and open to all.
When: March 7, 14, 21, 2026 (Saturdays), the 3 sessions build on each other but can also stand alone.
THE WEST IS BURNING raises awareness about the conditions of forests in the western U.S. This feature documentary released November 2020 examines the history of forest management and litigation that led to the current conditions which are causing catastrophic fire nearly year-round. The film explores the urgent need to act now, and the potential to generate positive change in our forests, watersheds, and communities, both rural and urban.
Six real-life perspectives drive the films’ narrative to help raise awareness about the conditions of forests in the western U.S. Their stories demonstrate the need to embrace a new era of forest stewardship, and the unique partnerships that are being built across community-based organizations, government entities, and private and non-governmental organizations. These thought leaders highlight the need for a unified response to climate change, land use, and forest restoration, and emphasize the importance of community-based solutions to these challenges.
Discussion Panel
A FORMAL PANEL DISCUSSION featuring local leaders in fire, land management, private lands, forest resource utilization, collaboration and partnerships, education, and government will explore the themes of Resilient Landscapes, Fire Adapted Communities, Collaborative Forest Management, Communities and the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI).
Fuel Reduction Tour
Dr. Thomas Hofstra, Professor of Forestry and Natural Resources at Columbia College, will guide us on a walk through the Columbia College Campus to view active fuel reduction work being done by Forestry and Natural Resources students, including hand thinning, pile burning, chipping, mastication and broadcast burning. (Please wear appropriate footwear.)
Difficulty: Moderate, the campus is hilly. The tour will stay on trails and fire roads as much as possible. Access to some units may require off-trail walking. Limited accessibility options may be available. Please notify the welcome table of any special needs.
