Sequoia Parks Conservancy KNP Complex Fund

 

Sequoia Parks Conservancy KNP Complex Fire

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September 17, 2021 Dear Friends: Sequoia Parks Conservancy Board Chair Dave Camenson and I thought we had made it through the two toughest years in our parks’ history: In 2020 alone we weathered the SQF Fire Complex, which burned more than 10-14% of giant sequoia on the planet. Our operations were shuttered when the parks closed for three months during the start of Covid, and we had to figure out how to operate in the midst of the global pandemic. But on the night of September 9, 2021, an intense lightning storm ignited three fires in some of the most densely vegetated, iconic and historic areas of the park.

The KNP Complex fire is burning now in Sequoia National Park. It’s not deep in the backcountry. It’s blazing as close as Hospital Rock, Crystal Cave and Mineral King areas, and other often-visited places. If I were at park headquarters, it could easily be seen from my office. You are probably scanning this letter for the status of park features you love, know inside and out, backwards and forwards. You might wonder if parts of Sequoia that you had yet to explore will still be standing when we move past this tragic event.  Right now it is just too early to know what damage has been done. We can confidently share that once it is safe, Sequoia National Park staff will have a massive job ahead of them: rebuilding trails, protecting sequoia groves and meadows, safeguarding cultural and historic features, reestablishing access to Crystal Cave, restoring wildlife habitat, and more. Areas that bring up fond memories for all of us will need to be carefully and methodically inventoried, each with its own restoration plan, budget, and staff. Sequoia Parks Conservancy will not leave Park staff to do the job alone. SPC staff and board of directors will be active partners. We will come together as a team like we always do in times of need.  We also know you are asking, “How can I help?”  First and foremost, for your safety, please follow the instructions and advice on the park’s Current Conditions webpage. Second, we encourage you to participate in all community meetings to have your questions answered. We broadcast them directly on our Facebook Page.  If you would like to help, we have launched the KNP Complex Fire Recovery Fund for Sequoia National Park. At least ninety percent of your donation will be restricted to this fund.

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With much appreciation,

Savannah Boiano Executive Director

David Camenson Chairman of the Board