We had litterly been back a few hours when we pulled out all the stops and had a wonderful celebration for the 4th of July, 2002!  We had fire trucks from all over the state.

Recovery begins! Most of us had never been in a disaster before, so we all learned together and cried together.  There was so much to do.  Out of almost a half million total acres burned we were faced with over 8 thousand acres of private land.  FEMA started the efforts teaching us a little, but the true lessons were learned by trial and error.  After a few weeks I took on the job of Director for the Wildfire Recovery Team.  We have 10  communities effected by the blaze.  According to the needs we have between 1 and 9 site workers in each area.  I work the entire complex, finding/organizing volunteers, finding recources, doing TONS of paperwork, attending meetings to both help the victims with housing and basic needs, and keeping the volunteers working smoothly.  I am proud to say, it's working!!!  I truly have a awesome team to work with.  They are people who really love the mountain, it's people, and want only the best for this area.

Amost a half million acres were distroyed, over 8 thousand  private acres and over 600 homes, mobiles, or businesses were lost to the "monster".

Raking and spreading grass seed/straw has been a huge job.  All types of groups have worked. 4-H, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, church groups, even families have given of their time and labor to help with recovery efforts.

A lot of the terrain is very difficult. ATVs have been very helpful.

We have been blessed with wonderful partners in the recovery efforts.  The local Salvation Army has been a "rock". They are there at every turn, offering food, guideance, and taking a major role in fundraising to rebuild homes and lives.

One of the hardest facts to face is that a lot of the land burned so hot it has no nutrients to sustain life. The grass seed germinates but then dies quickly.  We need soil amendments for the baby trees and shrubs or we are asking the residents to watch as the baby tree/shrubs die. After loosing all their trees, that seems truly cruel.  There are no funds to buy these amendments, we are hoping for caring hearts to help with that issue.  If you would like to help in this project funds are being received through the Wildfire Recovery Assistance, just ask that your donation go to the "amendments" project.

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