Drought fuels public concern

People arrived early to view interagency exhibits on topics that ranged from computer fire modeling and Cerro Grande Fire restoration efforts to wildland fire risk assessment tips and information to help citizens learn what they can do to protect their homes and property in the event of another wildland fire.

Erin McClure, left, and Cameron Ott of Laura Patterson's sixth grade class at Mountain Elementary School in Los Alamos describe a variety of rehabilitation projects the class has undertaken as members of the Volunteer Task Force. Their accomplishments include "adopting" and rebuilding the Quemazon Nature Trail in Western Area and a variety of other educational activities, such as environmental projects in science, writing and art. The Volunteer Task Force is a community-based group that works with representatives from local and area organizations, Los Alamos County, the U.S. Forest Service, the National Park Service, the Laboratory and other federal agencies to coordinate volunteer efforts for recovery after the Cerro Grande Fire and to provide public education for understanding forests and their interface with urban areas. For more information, go to www.losalamos.com/mavtf online. Photos by Fran L. Talley, Public Affairs