Wildfire, like actors in a Greek drama, has two opposing faces: one of destruction and another of rejuvenation. In recent years there has been a growing appreciation of wildfire’s regenerative function in forest ecology, but the increase in large, intensely hot “megafires” not only poses increased risks to local communities and economies, but has the ability to permanently transform the ecosystems and habitats through which they burn, with profound implications for wildlife. On this episode of Locus Focus we talk with Collin O’Mara, president of the National Wildlife Federation about their new report that discusses the intersection between wildfire, wildlife, climate change, and forest management. We’ll discuss policy recommendations provided in the report on how to counter the growing threat of megafires in the United States.
Collin O’Mara serves as President and CEO of the National Wildlife Federation, America’s largest wildlife conservation organization with 51 state and territorial affiliates and nearly six million hunters, anglers, birders, gardeners, hikers, paddlers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Under O’Mara’s leadership, the National Wildlife Federation is focused on recovering America’s wildlife ranging from bison and bighorn sheep to pollinators like monarch butterflies and native bees, improving management of and access to public lands, restoring America’s water bodies, advancing environmental education and connecting every American child with the great outdoors.
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