Discover Your Forest, Oregon Living with Fire, and the Ochoco National Forest invite you to a public screening of a Landmark Stories documentary The West is Burning.
Two free community events will be held next week at the A.R. Bowman Memorial Museum, 246 N. Main St., Prineville on Monday, June 5, and at the Jefferson County Health and Wellness Campus Community Room, 500 NE A St., Madras on Wednesday, June 7. Both events begin at 6:30 p.m.; doors open at 6:00 p.m.
The West is Burning examines the history of forest management and social conflict that has contributed to current forest conditions, causing longer fire seasons and unprecedented impacts. The film emphasizes the need to act now to generate positive change in our forests, watersheds, and communities. Six real life perspectives drive the film’s narrative to help raise awareness about the conditions of forests in the western U.S. Their stories demonstrate the need to embrace a new era of forest stewardship, and the unique partnerships that are being built across community-based organizations, government entities, and private and non-governmental organizations. These thought leaders highlight the need for a unified response to climate change, land use, and forest restoration, and emphasize the importance of community-based solutions to these challenges.
The events will include speakers who specialize in land management, forestry and fire. At the Madras, Oregon event, speakers will include Jefferson County Commissioner Mark Wunsch, Warm Springs Fire Management RTRL Project Lead, Antone Moody, and Ochoco National Forest Supervisor Shane Jeffries. Jeffries will also be speaking at the Prineville, Oregon event along with Crook County Fire & Rescue Fire Chief, Matt Smith, and tri-county Climate and Health Coordinator, Sarah Worthington. Following the speakers will be the screening of the 56-minute film. Representatives from local forestry and fire organizations will host tables and share information on wildfire preparedness before and after the event.
These are free events and light refreshments will be provided. For more information contact Discover Your Forest’s Wildland Fire Education Coordinator Emily Curtis at emily.curtis@discovernw.org
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