USFS Program Specialist and Former Hotshot Superintendent | Interviewed May, 2014 | Oregon
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Gina Papke, current Program Specialist and former Hotshot Superintendent, talks about some significant aspects of her career, including working for Paul Gleason, fighting the Great Yellowstone Fires, and traveling to Long Island on assignment.
An Introduction: Gina Papke
Significant Events and Defining Moments
Burning out in Canada and Beyond
Living the Passion
Women in fire, camaraderie, and change
South Canyon
Influential People
Yellowstone Fires and the 10 a.m. Policy
Where the pride comes from…
Competition on the Fireline
The Role of Fire in the Environment
Women in Basecamp – the early days
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How does Gina view the role of fire in the environment?
“You know, fire does have a place in the environment. Fire is an important part of our ecosystem. Do we need to fight every fire? I don’t know if we need to fight every fire…But we do want to protect homes and people’s livelihood. There is a balance in there and I don’t think we’ve found that balance. Fire is a huge part of our environment and I think we have to accept that. And be willing to take the risks. I don’t think were there yet.”
