Brush Fire at Saw Kill Trails and more across Hudson Valley
On Friday, November 8th a brush fire broke out at Winnakee’s Saw Kill trails. Thanks to the speedy response of local firefighters, the fire was able to be extinguished quickly. Firefighters returned Saturday to ensure hot spots were put out and to proactively soak areas to prevent further fire. The cause is still unknown but dry conditions across the region contributed to the fire’s spread.
At the time of this article, dozens of brush fires and two large wildfires were being fought and causing smoke across the Hudson Valley.
“While regional focus today remains on keeping everyone safe, the reality of increases in extreme weather is something we cannot ignore. Climate change is causing more frequent and extreme droughts, which can lead to more fires.” –Bob Davis, Executive Director
The evidence connecting the climate crisis and extreme wildfires is clear. Increased global temperatures and reduced moisture lead to drier conditions and extended fire seasons. Prolonged heatwaves can take what was once a natural event in the fire-cycle process and supercharge it into a maelstrom that devastates entire communities.
Unhealthy air isn’t the only impact from the copious amount of smoke and gases from those extreme wildfire events. The carbon dioxide released when forests burn itself accelerates the impacts of climate change.
Global Forest Watch published this helpful tool to understand the fire and climate feedback loop.
A local forest protection approach
Winnakee’s mission to protect local forests is one way to act locally to slow climate change. Resilient forests are one of the best nature-based solutions to improve our region’s ecological health, strengthen local economies and combat the climate crisis. Learn more about the work we do and get involved:
Land for Climate Change – Winnakee Land Trust
FOREVER FORESTS – Winnakee Land Trust
