Saving the Beauty of wildlands preserves
Jack Thompson
Desert Preserves Regional Director
The Wildlands Conservancy
At the time of this writing, many of us are stunned at the fact that wildfire effects have touched most people living in the western United States. As many of you may know, some of The Wildlands Conservancy’s Southern California preserves have not escaped this fire season unscathed. But while the recent fires at the Oak Glen, Bear Paw and Whitewater Preserves have been difficult to bear, they have also shone a light on the incredible commitment and courage that runs through the heart of our organization.
During these recent fires, Wildlands staff could always be found at the sharp end of things, whether it was advising fire fighting authorities and providing critical information, or facing the flames shoulder to shoulder with fire fighters. Sometimes they even faced raging walls of fire with little to no support, often with nothing more to count on but themselves. Time after time, they held fast. After 13 years with this organization, I am humbled by this fact, but not surprised.
Wildlands Rangers work to hold fire lines during the El Dorado Fire. Photos by Elba Mora and Doug Chudy.
As an environmental organization, we have always been guided by the simple idea that our capacity to protect and caretake land is directly tied to our love for it. And because you cannot truly love something you do not know, our staff live on the land they caretake whenever possible. As a result, we forge relationships that only grow deeper with each passing day. This connection to the land helps guide our decisions, and inspires the heartfelt way we welcome others and pass on what we’ve seen and learned. The recent fires proved just what a powerful practice this can be. I have no doubt that despite terrifying sights and sounds, my colleagues held their ground because they could not bear to do anything else, proving yet again that nothing is so fierce as those protecting what they love.
My heart aches for what was lost in the fires. But I can also say from long experience that time spent in the Beauty of what was saved is powerful medicine for the soul. I extend my most sincere welcome to you. Come visit us. In the desert, fall is in the air and with each passing day we can feel the intensity of the summer receding. It is the perfect time to get outside and celebrate the Beauty that remains all around you. We are here, and access is and always will be free.
A sunset visit to Whitewater River. Photo by Jack Thompson.