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Rocks Rebuild Burned Mountains
22 Aug
Summary
- Volunteers build rock structures to control erosion and restore burned areas.
- The Bighorn Fire in 2020 burned nearly 120,000 acres in the Santa Catalina Mountains.
- Restoration efforts create microclimates that encourage vegetation regrowth.
Volunteers are actively engaged in restoring Mount Lemmon by constructing rock rundown structures. These natural dams help control erosion and rebuild ecosystems impacted by the 2020 Bighorn Fire, which consumed nearly 120,000 acres. Sky Island Alliance coordinates these efforts, deploying volunteers to place rocks along natural drainages.
The erosion control structures are a low-tech solution designed to slow water runoff and trap soil and debris. This process is crucial for stabilizing the land after extensive fire damage, preventing material from washing into downstream washes and rivers. The work directly addresses the aftermath of the Bighorn Fire.
Beyond immediate erosion control, these structures initiate a natural healing process. They create microclimates that encourage vegetation to take root, with plant roots further securing the soil. This revitalizes the ecosystem, making it more biodiverse and lush, and potentially reducing future fire intensity.
Mount Lemmon, a popular escape from Tucson's heat, suffered significant damage. The fire left behind bare soil and debris, increasing flood risks during monsoon season. Restoration efforts are vital for the mountain's long-term health and resilience, supported by hundreds of dedicated volunteers.
