Lake Fire Reforestation: New Life in the San Bernardino Mountains
Lake Fire Reforestation: New Life in the San Bernardino Mountains 🌲
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In this edition of our reforestation spotlight series, we look back at the Lake Fire Reforestation Project on the San Bernardino National Forest — a multi-year effort that brought new growth to a landscape forever changed by wildfire.
A Forest Transformed
In the summer of 2015, a massive wildfire called the Lake Fire swept through the San Bernardino Mountains near Big Bear Lake, California. The blaze burned more than 31,000 acres of forest, including popular recreation spots around Barton Flats, Seven Oaks, and Onyx Summit.
The fire left behind steep, rocky slopes and wide open hillsides where almost every tree had been lost. In some of these areas, the forest couldn’t grow back naturally — so reforestation efforts began to bring new life to this beloved mountain region.
Replanting HopeÂ
Beginning in 2017, crews and volunteers returned to the burn area to plant thousands of young trees. These new seedlings — mostly native pines and firs — were carefully planted on the hillsides that needed the most help, especially where mature trees had been completely destroyed and no natural seed sources remained.
Over time, these small trees have taken root and begun to transform the once-blackened slopes back into living forest. What was once a stark, gray landscape is now dotted with green — a visible reminder that nature can heal with a little help.
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Where the Trees Were Planted
The Lake Fire Reforestation Project took place on the San Bernardino National Forest, primarily in the high-elevation areas between Barton Flats and Onyx Summit, south of Big Bear Lake.
Thousands of seedlings were planted in sections of the burn area that showed the slowest signs of natural recovery. The project restored forest cover along mountain ridges and recreation corridors that are home to camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing — places that many Southern Californians know and love.
These efforts were made possible through the collaboration of multiple partners and sponsors who came together to support the renewal of this cherished forest.
Why Reforestation Matters Here
Replanting after a fire helps the forest recover faster and protects the mountain environment in several ways:
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Restores wildlife habitat for deer, birds, and other native species
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Prevents soil erosion and protects clean mountain streams
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Brings shade and beauty back to hiking areas and scenic drives
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Supports long-term climate resilience through healthy, growing forests
A Living Legacy
Every tree that we are able to contribute to reforestation on California's forests represents more than a seedling — it’s a living tribute.
Each tree helps bring shade, clean air, and life back to these mountains, turning loss into renewal and remembrance into restoration.
Together, supporters, sponsors, and local partners have helped landscapes such as this one begin a new chapter of growth.
To learn more about our ongoing planting efforts and current restoration projects, visit A Living Tribute 🌿