When: September 15, 2025 @ 5:30 pm
Learn how to navigate the intersection between fire-prone wildlands and developed lands
As part of the Cowee School Art and Heritage Center’s “Where We Live” Speaker series, Mainspring and the Cherokee Fire Module presents “Living with Fire.”
Wildfire is a natural force that has shaped our landscape for centuries. Throughout history, people have learned the importance of wildfire in sustaining a healthy ecosystem, thus integrating fire as both a cultural and environmental tool. As society and technology changes, so does our understanding of and response towards fire. With wildfire severity intensifying as our climate changes and development upsurging in high-risk areas, understanding how to co-exist with wildfire is critical.
This talk will delve into the history and importance of fire in Southern Appalachia, and explore the role it plays today. Join Kaitlyn Henderson of Mainspring Conservation Trust and Adam Henry of the Cherokee Fire Module to learn how to navigate the intersection between fire-prone wildlands and developed lands, including defensive strategies to mitigate fire damage to personal property and land.
Kaitlyn Henderson is the Stewardship Associate at Mainspring Conservation Trust, and holds a B.S in Natural Resource Conservation and Management from Western Carolina University. At Mainspring, Kaitlyn supports annual property monitoring, conducts groundskeeping, maps and analyzes landscape trends, leads volunteer workdays to improve the health of wildlands, and much more. Her experience fighting wildfire includes participating in prescribed burns with The Nature Conservancy and National Park Service, and serving as a Wildland Firefighter with the US Forest Service.
Adam Henry is the ᏣᎳᎩ Fire Module Leader with over 15 years of federal service and 6 years with the NC Forest Service. A western North Carolina native with a diverse background in fire management that specializes in the Southern Appalachian Mountains, his experience spans multiple challenging roles. Over the years, he has served as a hotshot, engine captain, and handcrew supervisor, and he has also completed 120-day details as both an AFMO and an FMO. Adam’s academic journey began with an Associate’s Degree in Forest Management, which he has enhanced through specialized training as a prescribed burn boss and heavy equipment operator. His expertise in controlled burns and equipment operations underscores his capability in ensuring both safety and efficiency in the field. In addition to his professional credentials, Adam has devoted over 22 years to volunteer firefighting, including time as an assistant chief. This long-term commitment to serving his community not only showcases his passion for fire but also reflects his strong leadership and willingness to go above and beyond. Adam brings a wealth of operational expertise, a solid commitment to safety, and proven leadership to his role as the ᏣᎳᎩ Fire Module Leader, making him an invaluable asset to the crew.
This event is free and open to the public, and no registration is required to attend. This talk will run for about an hour, and will be followed by a Q&A session.
