Following in the footsteps of Ranger Emeritus Mia Monroe, Ranger Heather explains the unique ecosystems found in the canopies of redwoods - Muir Woods, Sunday, 09/22/24
“Griggs recounts the lessons we all need to learn from the historic and prehistoric earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, droughts, and floods that repeatably strike California. His lesson for us all is that we cannot control the natural forces shaping our planet, but it is within our power to prevent them from becoming human and economic disasters."—Marcia McNutt, President of the National Academy of Sciences and former Director of the United States Geological Survey
by Gary Griggs (Author)
This comprehensive account of California’s numerous and perilous natural disasters explores how a unique combination of forces has affected Californians throughout the state's history and carries a sobering message about our short disaster memories.
California has more natural hazards per square mile than any other state, but this hasn’t deterred people from moving here. Entire California towns and regions frequently contend with destruction caused by earthquakes, floods, landslides and debris flows, and sea-level rise and coastal erosion. As Gary Griggs demonstrates in California Catastrophes, few years go by without a disaster of some kind, and residents often rebuild in the same locations that were just destroyed.
Considering the current climate crisis and increasing environmental inequalities, the stakes are growing ever higher. This book dives into the history of the state’s vulnerability to natural hazards, why and where these events occur, and how Californians can better prepare going forward. A mix of photographs and maps both historical and contemporary orients readers within the state’s sprawling landscapes and provides glimpses of some of the geologic risks in each region. With the final chapter, Griggs issues a call to action and challenges readers to envision a safer, more equitable, and sustainable future.
Greg