Are some trees fire-resistant? Actually, yes.
A surprisingly long list of trees have fire-resistant traits. Which trees are they, and what makes them more resilient?
Specific characteristics set some trees up to better survive the flames.
Extreme Weather
If you feel like extreme weather is making more news than usual in recent years, you'd be right. Due to climate change, extreme weather events like wildfires and hurricanes are lasting longer and becoming more intense. But trees can help turn the tide. Read on for stories about trees protecting communities from tomorrow's natural disasters — and how replanting after disaster can revive entire communities.
The Past is Not Prologue in the American Pacific West
Climate change is making an already dry climate even drier. In the American Pacific West, natural disasters are intensifying and causing more severe damage. Plants and animals incapable of withstanding the now-higher temperatures are being chased out of their homes. The domino effect could make a major impact on humans if we don’t act now.
A climatologist discusses resiliency in America's driest region.
A Tree Can Be Relief
Climate change is redefining what summer feels like. But there’s a simple nature-based solution for taking some of the heat off communities.
Learn how trees stand ready to combat extreme heat in cities.
Supercharged Hurricanes Are Our New Reality. How Can Trees Help?
Hurricanes aren’t becoming more frequent, but they are getting worse. Trees can help slow the forces making storms more intense, and help communities heal after disaster strikes.
Discover all the ways trees can protect, help, and heal.
Facing Down California’s Monster Fires
Gus Boston thought the Carr Fire would define his firefighting career. Then the Camp Fire started. Read this California firefighter’s thoughts on the impact increasingly severe fires are having on the American West.
Read a firefighters thoughts on facing California's increasingly severe fires.
How Healthy is the Forest? Ask This Owl
The Northern spotted owl can tell us a lot about the health of old-growth forests. But these birds are facing more challenges today than ever before. Find out how protecting delicate ecosystems is paramount for this creature’s survival.
Find out what the Northern spotted owl can tell researchers.
The Fire That Sparked a Movement
In 1988, Yellowstone National Park was engulfed in flames. By the time the blaze was extinguished, nearly a third of its land was scorched. Explore how the work of replanting after this fire laid the foundation for national and international recovery efforts.
Learn how a historic Yellowstone fire informed forest recovery efforts around the world.
Restoring the Heart of Puerto Rico
Hurricane Maria tore through Puerto Rico in 2017 and took nearly 30% of the island’s trees with it. Explore how we're working with local partners to plant the right trees with sensitivity and scale.
See our mission come to life with local partners.
Trees as a Force for Equity
As temperatures rise, historically underserved communities are feeling the heat. Explore how communities like Parkwood in Nashville are using trees as a strategy to combat urban heat islands to cool an area otherwise lacking community canopy.
Learn how neighborhood trees can make life better for residents.