~ Rocky fire 2015 ~
We're safe...right?
Like most people, you think it will never happen to you. The fire was far away and, if anything, there was no chance it would jump the highway...no way!
What we couldn't see...
While it seemed small in the distance, the fire quickly grew and expanded beyond the control and ability of firefighters to reign it in.
Ominous
While the skies darkened over the days and air became filled with particles, it was becoming clear that this may not be like the "other" fires.
Out of Control
Unlike most fires, they stop at highways or larger bodies of water and are able to be "controlled"; however, this fire raged forward, jumping Hwy 20 and causing our final evacuation. Chickens, cats, dogs, peacocks, humans alike, we made a run for it- whatever could fit into a small Sudan and pick up truck.
More than Expected
When the fire was finally contained, over 69,000 acres were burned/destroyed. The fire caused minimal human fatalities but there were large losses in terms of monetary belongings and buildings. More than anything, the fire caused enormous loss in terms of wildlife and 1,000's of acres of natural habitat.
Ravens Haven Gone
Once we returned we found nothing left but ruble, soot, and the hollowed remains of metal structures. The artist settlement of Ravens Haven was gone.
Rebirth
Ravens Haven was gone but from its ashes Ravens Landing was born.
Ravens Landing Born
Rebuilding was not just a matter of structures but rebuilding and nurturing the land to bring back life both spiritual and living.