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During the summer of 2005, campers in Kings Canyon National Park got more than they were
expecting from their visit. On the ridge just above three busy campgrounds in Cedar Grove, the
lightning-caused Comb Fire burned 9,775 acres between July and October - all while thousands of
visitors hiked, rested, cooked, rode bikes, and roasted marshmallows below.
“One of the best things about the Comb Fire was the positive feedback we got from park visitors,” said
David Bartlett, District Fire Management Officer for Kings Canyon National Park.
When the fire was active, information officers, firefighters, and park rangers roved the campgrounds
and day-use areas to answer questions and provide updates on the fire’s size and progress. These staff
members talked to thousands of people about why managers were allowing the fire to spread
naturally, how they were reducing smoke impacts, and how the fire was improving forest conditions
for plants and animals.
In the evenings, the glow of the Comb Fire provided a backdrop for these conversations and inspired
a sense of wonder. Instead of feeling nervous, campers were reassured that crews were actively
preventing the fire from spreading near visitor facilities.
“Because they felt safe and understood why the Comb Fire was important, the campers tolerated
smoky skies and a few trail closures,” said Jody Lyle, Fire Education Specialist for the parks. 'Rather
than hearing complaints, we heard about how the Comb Fire was one of the most interesting things
they’d ever seen."
Contact: Jody Lyle, Fire Communication & Education Specialist
Phone: (559) 565-3703 |
