Overview
This week's topic is the wildfires that have been consuming U.S. homes, vegetation, livestock and wildlife in the Western United States, as well as in other countries, such as, Australia.
To help guide our Discussion, do not discuss the immediate ways the wildfires could have started. Do not discuss methods of ignition -- such as lightning, arson, parties, campfires, sparks from utilities and automobiles, etc. (Repeat: do not discuss what specifically ignites/starts the wildfires.)
Instead, do discuss the bigger issue of the environmental conditions and human practices that are making wildfires burn hotter, longer, and more frequently:
1. What is causing the recent wildfires to burn so much more intensely and faster-spreading than in the past? (15 points) 2. Why do many scientists predict such wildfires will continue to get worse in the future? (10 points) 3. Respond thoughtfully to another student's discussion post. (5 points)
As you ponder these questions, please investigate/research the role played by one or more of the following:
fire-adapted ecosystems (including, native trees, shrubs, and grasses)
where humans are locating their homes and buildings
invasive species (including, eucalyptus trees and pine bark beetles)
U.S. National Forests
fire suppression
controlled burning
climate change
drought
other?