05/31/2026
Our Forestry & Natural Resources students had a field trip learning about wildfire risk, forest health, and sustainable land management. Students learned about the history of wildfire and fuels in our forests and how today’s forests are often more dense and contain heavier fuel loads, increasing wildfire risk. Most importantly, they discussed how we can be good stewards of the land and sustainably manage forests for future generations.
Students also had the opportunity to visit a post prescribed burn to see the burn scars, where they saw firsthand how fire can be beneficial to ecosystems by promoting new grass growth and improving grazing opportunities.
Another highlight of the day was learning the difference between wetlands and riparian areas. With Brandi Neider from Lake County Umbrella Watershed, students explored beaver dam analogues and learned how these structures improve riparian health, help retain water on the landscape, provide water sources for firefighting efforts, and can even help slow the spread of wildfire.
What a great day of hands-on learning!
Thank you to Ben van Heerden from Collins Pine, Jason Pettigrew from ODF, Brandi Neider with Lake County Umbrella Watershed, and John Shine for allowing us to explore and learn on your property. A special thank you to Chris Marks with ODF for organizing this amazing opportunity for our students!
