Over the last few years, the State of California has been devastated by several destructive wildfires including the Sand, Station, Woolsey, Thomas and Camp Fires. These fires have claimed lives, burned structures to the ground, displaced entire communities, destroyed wildlife and wild spaces. This is what most people know of fire, but fire can have a different side.

Following a devastating fire, the second act can begin. The second act is the beginning of the recovery. The recovery can include plants that are rarely ever seen, except following a fire. These plants are called Fire Followers. The heat from the fire is needed to crack open the seeds of these plants, which is why you never see them between fires. The results of this can be show-stopping! Giant phacelia can cover hillsides with their bright purple hues. Other flowers, such as the Fire Poppy, will bloom for only 24 hours.

While everyone tends to fear fire, it can rejuvenate the forest and open spaces. It can get rid of things like borers, which kill our trees, and the forest can be reborn, without the help of humans. Plants and trees will be healthier after a fire, using the potash as fertilizer. Slowly the animals return, and the cycle begins anew.