Lake County celebrates decade of wildfire preparedness and community cooperation

In the heart of Lake County, California, the Board of Supervisors convened on May 6, 2025, to address pressing issues surrounding wildfire preparedness and community resilience. As the meeting unfolded, a palpable sense of urgency filled the room, underscoring the reality that fire season is no longer confined to a specific time of year. Chair Crandall opened the session with a poignant reminder: “What you do makes a difference.”

This year marks a decade since the catastrophic wildfires began to reshape the landscape of the West, and the community has rallied together in response. “We have built a network, systems, and a workforce,” Crandall noted, expressing gratitude for the tireless efforts of volunteers and agencies dedicated to wildfire mitigation. The collaborative spirit was evident as representatives from CAL FIRE shared alarming statistics from 2024, where over a million acres burned, including a devastating park fire that consumed 429,000 acres.

The meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges posed by climate change, with CAL FIRE officials emphasizing the need for year-round preparedness. “We are in the era of mega fires,” they warned, reflecting on the destructive fires that have already claimed lives and property this year. The urgency for community involvement was echoed by several supervisors, who urged property owners to take responsibility for fire safety in their neighborhoods.

As discussions progressed, the concept of “fire adaptation” emerged as a cultural shift within Lake County. One supervisor articulated the importance of learning from tribal communities, who have practiced land stewardship for thousands of years. “We can live well with wildfire if we understand what it is,” they stated, advocating for a collective approach to fire management that transcends political boundaries.

Public comments further enriched the dialogue, with residents voicing concerns about air quality and the environmental impacts of ongoing burning practices. One advocate passionately called for a unified approach to address the root causes of increasing wildfire incidents, emphasizing the need for policy changes that safeguard the community’s natural resources.

As the meeting concluded, the Board of Supervisors reaffirmed their commitment to collaboration and proactive measures in the face of an ever-evolving wildfire landscape. The message was clear: the fight against wildfires is a shared responsibility, and the community must remain vigilant and engaged to protect their homes and environment. With the fire season looming, Lake County stands united, ready to face the challenges ahead.