SMA PROGRAMS: Biocultural Conservation:
Ethno-Ecological Fire Management and Fire History Research

Fire is one of the principal tools of indigenous people in the Sierra and one of the essential driving forces for sustaining the forests of this semi-arid region. The recent history of logging and fire suppression in the Sierra have increased risks of catastrophic fires.

Indigenous peoples are often threatened by foresters if they continue traditional use of fire, a conflict which increases both social and ecological instability. SMA, Consejo EcoRegional Sierra Tarahumara A.C. and regional partners are planning an alternative approach to fire management in the Sierra.

This summer and fall, fire scar samples were collected by FA biologists from the mixed conifer Tutuaca Thick-billed Parrot Sanctuary and from Pino Gordo. They will beanalyzed by Consejo EcoRegional Sierra Tarahumara A.C. biologists in cooperation with Dr. Pete Fule of Northern Arizona University School of Forestry.

Fire is one of the principal tools of indigenous people in the Sierra and one of the essential driving forces for sustaining the forests of this semi-arid regionIndigenous fire management practices in Pino Gordo are being assessed with the community of Pino Gordo and other communities. The results are being used by the community to develop the fire management section of its Protected Area Management Plan, and will be shared in exchanges with other indigenous communities so they may begin to assess their own fire conditions.