Managing Fire in Denali

Wildland fire is a two-sided coin—both an important part of Denali’s boreal forest ecosystem and a significant risk to the safety of visitors and communities, cultural resources, and infrastructure. In recent years, Denali staff and interagency partners have worked to reduce those risks in the front country by thinning, piling, and burning accumulated vegetation. In the process, the appearance of familiar areas has changed. Join US Wildland Fire Service Fire Ecologist Sarah Stehn to explore the science behind these actions, understand their ecological effects, and learn how ongoing monitoring and research play a crucial role in evaluating and improving this work.