Introduction - Research on the 1994 Thunder Fire

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Photo of surviving giant. Photo by Mary Poss.

Final Reports (PDF)

Links:

Related pages:

These pages explore the natural history of a special area in north central Washington.

The Long Swamp Roadless area in the Okanogan National Forest, often refered to as "The Meadows", is one of the largest roadless areas in the state, with close to 100,000 acres bordering the Pasayten Wilderness on the north, the Loomis State Forest to the east and the Chewuch River on the west. Most of the large roadless areas left in the state are unique landscapes offering refuge for many assemblages of plants and animals. In the summer of 1994, the Thunder Mountain Fire burned in about 8000 acres of the Meadows. This fire has increased the vitality of the area, as you can see from the following links.

Clicking on the following links will provide more information about the Thunder Mountain area. There is information on the ecology of Thunder Mountain, as well as a link to long-term ecological research in the boreal zone of the North Cascades on the international border. There is information on the area's wildlife, birds, vegetation, and amphibians. There is a link to ongoing research and education on the Thunder Fire, as well as descriptions of past outreach events and workshops undertaken to explore the ecosystem. As is too common these days, the dynamic renewal process of the fire was not allowed to proceed without human intervention. Salvage logging in prime habitats started the 3rd week of June, 1996. As these studies unfold, you can keep updated here as to the destruction or (better choice) help prevent it by accessing these pages below. Also see Threats.

Location Map (click for closeup)
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Acknowledgements:

The images were selected from many incredible photographs taken by numerous photographers and naturalists who participated in the studies. When time permits, we intend to rescan some of the excellent photography which workshop participants contributed.