Garrett Dickman

Collaborating with Indigenous Peoples to forge a wildfire-resilient forest

"Indigenous people, especially in California, had a relationship with nature that was one of reciprocity. They would take something from nature, but then they would give something back."

Wildfires are a natural part of Yosemite National Park's ecosystem, but due to climate change, their frequency and intensity has become devastating. 

As Garrett Dickman explains, to preserve this natural wonder for future generations we must first look to the past. He advocates for a new approach to forest management – one that combines traditional knowledge with modern science.

For tens of thousands of years, Indigenous communities used fire to shape the landscape, ensuring the forests were both productive and resilient. A return to these methods can help protect Yosemite National Park's awe-inspiring giant sequoia groves.

National Park Service are collaborating with local Indigenous groups to action restorative thinning in the area, a practice that reduces the severity of wildfires and allows biodiversity to thrive.

As Forest Ecologist at National Park Service, Garrett Dickman leads Yosemite National Park's climate change and fire adaption strategies. He works across jurisdictions to drive funding and implement restoration projects.

"The cost per acre of doing restoration is a fraction of the cost of inaction."

To learn more about National Park Service, visit their website.

Additional footage supplied thanks to Garrett Dickman and the National Park Service.