Multiple news sources report on the aftermath of the largest fire in Channel Islands National Park history, which burned nearly one-third of Santa Rosa Island off California’s coast. The 18,379-acre blaze has been fully contained, but officials say recovery efforts could take years.
- Fire burned 18,379 acres, covering about one-third of Santa Rosa Island located 30-40 miles off California coast
- Blaze started May 15 and became largest fire in Channel Islands National Park recorded history
- At least two historic structures were destroyed in the flames
- Fire damaged rare Torrey pines found in only two locations worldwide, with grove’s future uncertain
- Island remains closed to public while Burned Area Emergency Response team assesses damage
- Team of specialists including hydrologist, soil scientist, archaeologist, paleontologist and botanist conducting damage review
- Much of the fire was low burn severity, suggesting ecosystem may recover over time (Aol)
- Recovery expected to be ‘very intensive, multi-year, painstaking effort’ (Aol)
Sources
- Aol: A huge fire threatened to burn a pristine California island. Inside the fight to preserve this oasis
- Aol: How the Channel Islands’ largest fire is reshaping the National Park
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