March 27, 2026 - Presentation
6pm Winthrop Library

As part of the PBA’s quarterly meeting, local wildlife biologist Matthew Danielson will present Getting Squirrelly: Western Gray Squirrels in the Okanogan.

This presentation will share techniques to identify western gray squirrels from other tree squirrels; cover the local history and human relationships to the species; and explore the connection between fire and habitat quality, highlighting how thoughtful prescribed burning can help restore the open forest structure that western gray squirrels depend on — a key part of the PBA’s mission.

From Baja Mexico to Okanogan County, western gray squirrels rely on rich, productive forests in dry climates. They depend on acorns from oak trees across their entire range – except in Okanogan County! You are invited to learn what makes Okanogan County a unique and important place for this endangered species.

March 28, 2026 - Burn in Winthrop

We'll be conducting a 3-acre burn just outside Winthrop. Anyone is welcome to observe or participate. Make sure to register here to get all the details.

April 11-12, 2026 - Learn and Burn Near Tonasket

On April 11 we'll be conducting a training session the whole day on how to do a prescribed burn on private land. On April 12 we'll put what we learned the previous day into practice with a small burn. This event is free and anyone is invited regardless of skill level. Make sure to register here to get all the details.

April 8, 2028 - Biochar Workshop
9am Methow Conservancy Office

In partnership with the Methow Conservancy, the PBA invites you to a hands-on demonstration of small-scale biochar production. We will be using a small biochar kiln welded by PBA supporter Dan Thrush.

This event is free and open to the public. If you’d like to help load the kiln, we recommend wearing natural fiber clothing so your synthetics don’t melt!

The demonstration will follow a First Tuesday presentation on the subject by Dr. Nate Anderson.

April 30, 2026 - Film Night in Twisp
6pm at the Grange

We'll be showing films on prescribed fire. Free to anyone.

Why Attend Our Events?

Our community has gone through its share of destructive wildfires over the years. It is therefore not surprising that many people may experience fear, anxiety, and even helplessness just at the thought of fire.

However, there is a different way to experience and relate to fire and the North Cascades Prescribed Burn Association was created to help shape a more positive relationship and shift the narrative around fire.

Indigenous people have revered and used 'good' fire for thousands of years to rejuvenate the landscape, promote the growth of culturally important plants, and reduce the risk of destructive wildfires around their communities. We are inspired by their knowledge and wisdom to rebuild a culture of acceptance around beneficial fire.

To that end, the North Cascades Prescribed Burn Association provides community members with free education and workshops on the use of prescribed fire.

Here are some reasons why you may want to attend these events:

Transform fear of fire into respect and understanding by experiencing prescribed fire up close in a safe, supportive setting.
Gain a sense of agency by increasing your understanding of how to respond to a wildfire, and how to be better prepared for one.
Learn first hand how fire may behave in different fuels and conditions.
Understand the tools, preparation, and control features used to mitigate risk.
Safely use fire equipment and build comfort around it.

Most of all, you’ll be helping build community capacity
because more trained people means stronger, safer communities.

Whether you're a landowner, community member, or simply curious about fire, our events provide an experience that can shift your relationship with fire and the landscape for good.

We’d love to see you there.

Please sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of this page if you want to be notified whenever we are organizing an event!

Upcoming Spring 2026 Events:

March 27, 2026 - Presentation6pm Winthrop Library