Fire Recovery Photo-Monitoring Project

The October 2003 wildfires burned throughout much of San Diego County, leaving many homes partially or completely burned. The wildfires also burned a significant portion of valuable open space that provides recreation for humans and wildlife habitat for a number of important native species.  In total, 376,237 acres burned San Diego County.  Wildfire is a natural part of the ecology of the county.  Accepting wildfire as a normal occurrence and planning for future wildfires may alleviate damage inflicted to the environment.

 The purpose of this project is to engage youth in fire ecology, environmental research skills, and geospatial technologies.  Research on fire-related issues helps to meet the needs of the fire management community as well as adding to knowledge about the role of fire in the landscape.