This past week was shortened due to the Independence Day holiday falling on Thursday.
To kick off the week in anticipation of the rising temperatures, we revisited a broadcast burn site from a couple of weeks ago to conduct a thorough re-evaluation for any remaining hot spots. Gus, Wyatt and Stephen utilized the Type 6 fire engine to concentrate on addressing specific hotspots on the right side of the unit.
Jamie Gassner
Meanwhile, Caroline, Daniel, Anthony, Jace and I combed through the rest of the area, systematically gridding it to detect any traces of smoke, carefully inspecting substantial stumps and roots for lingering heat, and verifying the locations pinpointed by the drones for any signs of warmth.
Anthony looks for heat in the broadcast burn.
On Tuesday, we met up with Corrine at the TumTum Tree Farm to embark on the creation of a fresh trail for the Starker Forests Tours. Initially, we approached this trail construction as a valuable exercise in simulating the process of digging a fire line in a fire scenario. After this exercise, we revisited the trail to expand its width and ensure it was primed for upcoming walking tours.
This trail-building project presented us with a unique opportunity to utilize unfamiliar tools that were previously unexplored by some of us. It provided each of us with the chance to operate a chainsaw and gain valuable hands-on experience in its proper use and techniques.
On Wednesday, we returned to TumTum to extend the walking trail, this time navigating through a clearcut area. Upon completing this trail section, we had the opportunity to conduct testing on all our water pumps, including volume and pressure pumps essential for firefighting scenarios. Additionally, we practiced the skill of drafting water from both a port-a-tank and a pond.
Wrapping up the day, we removed some old, wooden fenceposts for future reuse to enclose a new research plot.
Friday was an optional workday. I decided to take the day off and embarked on an 11-mile hike in the scenic Three Sisters Wilderness alongside my family.
I hope everyone had a joyous Independence Day celebration filled with memorable moments and that you all discovered refreshing ways to stay cool amidst the summer heat.
— Jamie Gassner