Part 4/9:
By the time the media, public opinion, and Congress shifted in their understanding, it was discovered that attempting to eradicate fire from ecosystems was detrimental. Instead of prevention, a more balanced approach recognizing the natural role of fire developed. Since the mid-20th century, the decommissioning began, with fire lookouts being abandoned one by one, fading away into history—or so we thought.
Entering the Cascades
On a journey through 22 miles of breathtaking scenery, the quest to meet a person living in one of these historic structures unveils a captivating narrative. This individual, Russ Dalton, a retired forest ranger, represents one of the last active fire lookouts in the world, preserving not just a building, but a tradition rich with history.