Speaker: Erica Fleishman, Director, Oregon Climate Change Research Institute Professor, College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences, Oregon State University

Topic: Fiery Debates

In 2020, virtually all communities in Oregon were affected by wildfires, whether they were under evacuation orders, accommodated people who were displaced, or were exposed to unhealthy air. There is scientific consensus that climate change, weather, and human activities and infrastructure are increasing the size and frequency of wildfires throughout the western United States. However, there is scientific and societal debate about trade-offs among potential methods for increasing resilience to wildfires and reducing the risks of undesirable wildfires. Among the many such methods are changes in land use, removal of vegetation, and revisions to building codes. Let's share a virtual beverage and discuss how science and society can respond to the changing dynamics of wildfire.