Restoring Balance: The Nature Conservancy’s mission to live safely with fire
Devastating wildfires have affected thousands of people and businesses this year, leaving a lasting impact. The Nature Conservancy (TNC), a global environmental nonprofit and the world’s leading nonprofit organization addressing fire issues, conducts controlled burns to restore health and diversity to natural lands. Since 1962, TNC has conducted controlled burns to balance the role of fire in nature and help communities prepare for, manage and live safely with fire.
Recognizing the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires, the Nationwide Foundation has approved $750,000 in funding since 2023 to help support TNC’s North America Fire program and fire practitioner networks. For the past 20 years, this program has been instrumental in restoring the natural role of fire in ecosystems.
“Understanding the critical need for proactive measures, our investment in The Nature Conservancy aims to mitigate the impact of disasters like destructive wildfires,” said Chad Jester, president of the Nationwide Foundation. “By supporting controlled burns and other fire management practices, we can help restore the natural balance of ecosystems, building a safer, more resilient future for all.”
TNC uses controlled burns to maintain healthy landscapes by mimicking natural, low intensity burns that reduce flammable vegetation and accumulated fuels. Controlled burns have been proven to enhance biodiversity, lower risks over time and support the health and sustainability of natural habitats. The vital work and research conducted by TNC supports communities and nature in over 80 countries and territories and protects more than 125 million acres of land.
“We’re so appreciative of the partnership with the Nationwide Foundation. We’ve received some federal funding in support of our work, but the private foundation funding is just so critical to support the diversity of practitioners,” said Marek Smith, TNC North America Fire Director and Fire Networks Co-Director.
Mark Berven, President and Chief Operating Officer of Nationwide Property & Casualty, recently spoke with Marek Smith on how TNC is working to reduce environmental risks as well as science-backed strategies and practical approaches to build resiliency in communities.
Click here to watch Mark and Marek’s full discussion, and learn more about TNC's Many Paths Project.
