Purpose of the Program

Wildfires and prolonged drought have led to severe native tree loss across California. In many burned areas, natural regeneration is no longer guaranteed due to the intensity of recent fires. Research has demonstrated that active reforestation in wildfire-affected regions can lead to faster tree regrowth and enhanced ecosystem stability (Frontiers in Forests and Global Change, 2025; ScienceDirect, 2024). By focusing on native species, we aim to rebuild soil health, reduce erosion, and support regional biodiversity.

Strategically planted trees can help lower temperatures in high-heat urban areas, reduce the need for air conditioning, and improve air quality. A UCLA study found that increasing tree canopy can reduce extreme heat-related emergency room visits by up to 66 percent in vulnerable neighborhoods. Trees also help manage stormwater runoff and protect homes from wind and fire exposure (The Nature Conservancy, 2021; Wired, 2022).

Our program integrates community education and job training to ensure sustainability and economic opportunity. The California Natural Resources Agency emphasizes the need to expand climate-related workforce development as a critical strategy for forest stewardship and long-term resilience. TreePeople and similar organizations have demonstrated that public education in climate-smart landscaping empowers residents to maintain and protect green spaces.

Through WRL, we provide hands-on workshops, training opportunities, and community-led design, ensuring participants are directly involved in the restoration of their neighborhoods.

Trees used in this program are grown locally at Wildfire Resilient Native Plants Nursery. These plants are well-adapted to the local climate and contribute to regional fire resilience. Wildfire Resilient Landscapes fosters engagement by collaborating closely with residents, schools, and community groups to identify suitable planting sites, co-create maintenance plans, and provide educational materials tailored to local needs.

Our holistic model promotes ecological recovery, community empowerment, and climate action—rooted in the soil and led by the people it serves.

• Frontiers in Forests and Global Change. (2025). Post-fire reforestation in the western United States: Lessons from 30 years of recovery.
   
• ScienceDirect. (2024). Seedling survival and vegetation regrowth in burned conifer forests of California.
   
• Wired. (2022). City trees save lives: How green spaces cool neighborhoods and reduce heat-related deaths.
   
• UCLA Center for Healthy Climate Solutions. (2023). Extreme Heat and Tree Canopy Inequity in Los Angeles County
   
• The Nature Conservancy. (2021). Wildfire Resilience Funding and Community Benefits.
   
• TreePeople. (2023). Climate Gardening 101: Building resilience through urban forestry.
   
• California Natural Resources Agency. (2023). Forest Stewardship and Climate Workforce Strategy Report.