Living With Fire Series
The Tuolumne Fire Safe Council and the League of Women Voters of the Mother Lode have partnered together to sponsor an event focused on educating residents on the increasing risk of wildfire to our homes, businesses, infrastructure, and natural resources.
Objective: To educate residents on the increasing risk of wildfire threat to our homes, businesses, infrastructure, and natural resources of Tuolumne County. To improve knowledge and understanding of the many factors that influence wildfire behavior and how we can learn to live with wildfire through adaptation and participation of all.
Through the generous support of Columbia College Foundation and Black Oak Casino Resort the Living with Fire Series has become a reality.
The event will be FREE and open to all.
When: March 7, 14, 21, 2026 (Saturdays), 3 sessions will build on each other or stand alone.
Session 1: Fire Risk – How did we get here? Where are we now?
Saturday, March 7, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm
Columbia College – Dogwood Forum Building
11600 College Dr, Sonora, CA 95370
Film: The West is Burning
THE WEST IS BURNING raises awareness about the conditions of forests in the western U.S. This feature documentary released November 2020 examines the history of forest management and litigation that led to the current conditions which are causing catastrophic fire nearly year-round. The film explores the urgent need to act now, and the potential to generate positive change in our forests, watersheds, and communities, both rural and urban.
Six real life perspectives drive the films’ 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.
Discussion Panel
A FORMAL PANEL DISCUSSION featuring local leaders in fire, land management, private lands, forest resource utilization, collaboration and partnerships, education, and government will explore the themes of Resilient Landscapes, Fire Adapted Communities, Collaborative Forest Management, Communities and the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI).
Fuel Reduction Tour
Dr. Thomas Hofstra, Professor of Forestry and Natural Resources at Columbia College, will guide us on a walk through Columbia College Campus to view active fuel reduction work being done by Forestry and Natural Resources students, including hand thinning, pile burning, chipping, mastication and broadcast burning. (Please wear or bring appropriate footwear.)
Difficulty: Moderate, the campus is hilly. Will stay on trails and fire roads as much as possible. Access to some units may require off trail walking. Limited accessibility options may be available. Please notify the welcome table of any special needs.
Session 2: Reducing Risk and Building Resilience
Saturday, March 14, 9 am-1 pm
Black Oak Casino Conference Center
More info to come.
Session 3: Community Prevention and Individual Responsibility
Saturday, March 21, 9 am-1 pm
Black Oak Casino Conference Center
More info to come.
