Understanding Wildfires in the Santa Cruz Mountains
Wildfires are becoming a common sight in California, often described as “megafires.” But what’s behind this uptick? How do human choices, land use, and climate change contribute to these increasingly fierce fires?
Recent research from UC Santa Cruz sheds light on these questions over three years. Researchers have been investigating the links between our communities and the natural world in what’s called the “Wildland Urban Interface” (WUI). This area is where homes meet wild forests, making it particularly vulnerable to wildfires.
The history of fire in this region is complex. Indigenous peoples used fire as a land management tool long before settlers arrived. When settlers came, they practiced ranching and introduced fire suppression techniques, which altered the landscape. The aftermath of early logging practices also contributed to the fire dynamics we see today.
A vivid illustration of this is the 2020 CZU Fire, which revealed how our past choices have laid the groundwork for present-day wildfires. Recent data from Cal Fire shows that wildfires in California have increased in both frequency and size over the last two decades. In fact, 2021 saw over 2.5 million acres burned in California alone.
Miriam Greenberg, a sociology professor at UC Santa Cruz, emphasizes the importance of learning from these histories. She leads projects that connect urban sustainability with the realities of climate change and housing crises. Her studies illustrate how the expanding WUI draws more people into fire-prone areas while aiming to reshape their connection with the land.
Andrew Mathews, an anthropology professor with expertise in how landscapes and communities interact, also contributes valuable insights. He studies fire’s role in shaping landscapes and how grazing animals can impact fire dynamics.
As we grapple with these challenges, understanding the intersection of our past, land use, and climate can help us rethink how we live in fire-prone areas. The story of fire is not just about destruction; it’s about relationships—between people, the land, and the practices we choose.
For deeper insights, check out Greenberg’s work on urban and environmental justice at Critical Sustainabilities and No Place Like Home. Both projects highlight crucial topics about community living and the environment, emphasizing that our choices today shape the landscapes of tomorrow.
