Our Public Lands
A podcast about our beloved and treasured public lands where I interview subject matter experts and activists from across the country who are working to protect and advocate for our public lands and their wildlife, wilderness, and cultural values.
Our Public Lands
#16 - The F*ck Our Forests Act & D.C. Dysfunction
In this episode, I interview Jennifer Mamola with the John Muir Project. Jenn discusses insights and frustrations with current wildfire policy in Washington, D.C. She stresses the importance of shifting focus from backcountry forest management to home hardening and defensible spaces around communities. Criticizing ineffective policies like the Fix Our Forests Act, she highlights the ecological necessity of allowing fire-adapted ecosystems to regenerate naturally. Jenn advocates for a community-out approach and better disaster mitigation funding, calling for Congress to adopt practical, science-backed solutions for true wildfire resilience.
https://johnmuirproject.org/
Oppose the "Fix Our Forests Act!"
https://johnmuirproject.org/take-action/#/14
or
https://www.westernwatersheds.org/actionalerts/tell-your-senators-to-oppose-the-fix-our-forests-act/
00:00 Introduction: Life in Washington D.C.
00:45 Challenges in Wildfire Mitigation
02:50 The Importance of Home Hardening
04:53 Misconceptions and Misinformation
06:09 Community-Centered Solutions
07:19 The Role of Federal Agencies
29:55 The Fix Our Forests Act
36:24 Natural Regeneration After Forest Fires
38:07 The Importance of Preservation Over Conservation
39:26 Challenges in Forest Management Policies
40:55 Political and Public Perception Issues
53:01 The Role of Prescribed Burns and Cultural Practices
59:38 The Need for Honest Conversations and Accountability
01:05:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts