Wildfires across the United States are growing larger and more intense, threatening communities, ecosystems, and critical water supplies. But are these “megafires” truly unprecedented—or are they part of a longer natural pattern?

In this webinar, USGS Research Ecologist Ellis Margolis shares how scientists are using tree rings to uncover the history of wildfire over hundreds of years. Drawing from the North American tree-ring fire scar network, this research provides valuable context for understanding how current fire activity compares to the past. Findings reveal that while modern fires are not necessarily larger than those before 1900, they are burning less frequently but with greater severity—especially in dry conifer forests of the western United States. Despite recent increases in wildfire activity, many forests still experience a “fire deficit,” meaning they are not burning as often as they historically did.

The webinar will also highlight practical solutions. Learn how land managers are using prescribed fire and managed wildfires to restore more natural fire patterns and build forest resilience in the face of multiple stressors.

Date: Friday, May 15, 2026
Time: 2:00–3:00 p.m. ET / 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. PT
Speaker: Ellis Margolis, Research Ecologist, USGS Fort Collins Science Center, New Mexico Landscapes Field Station

This webinar is free and open to natural resource professionals, scientists, and anyone interested in understanding wildfire science and management.