Fire, Chaparral and Survival in Southern California

Writing for longtime residents and new arrivals, Halsey, a biologist and fire ecologist who teaches at the San Diego Natural History Museum, explains why everyone who lives in California's fire country should understand the chaparral, the state's most extensive plant community, and learn how to prepare for wildfires and what to expect when the flames approach. He includes contributions from firefighters, ecologists, botanists, and other scientists to discuss topics such as fire behavior, land management, and knowledge of the natural environment to help residents better protect their homes and families and form closer connections with their surroundings. Thoroughly illustrated in b&w and color; 32 pages at the back provide images of and facts about 64 essential plants and animals found in the chaparral. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR