Wildfire on Santa Rosa Island Threatens Critically Endangered Torrey Pine Grove
A wildfire, ignited by a flare from a shipwrecked sailor, has ravaged nearly one-third of Santa Rosa Island, including the critically endangered Torrey pine grove on the island's east side. The National Park Service reports that this fire has affected one of only two natural habitats of the Torrey pine, a tree species that is genetically distinct due to thousands of years of isolation. The fire, which is the largest recorded on the island in modern history, has also destroyed two historic buildings. Firefighters have managed to contain 26% of the 16,942-acre blaze, aided by improved weather conditions and aerial firefighting efforts. 
