
SCOL Wildfire Work Party Recap
It’s wildfire season. On July 18th, the very day KCC’s White Tara Retreat began, the Burdoin Fire broke out on the west side of Klickitat County. As retreatants drove east on I-84 to KCC’s SCOL retreat center near Goldendale, Washington, flames were visible along the Washington side of the Columbia River.
Although the Burdoin Fire is now under control, its proximity served as an urgent reminder of the need for fire preparedness at SCOL. In response, a group of seven KCC members organized a work party to support caretakers Vicki and Bruce in reducing wildfire risk around the retreat center. Marci, Craig B, John R, John J, Illya, and Jennifer C helped clear gutters, trim low-hanging tree limbs, and rake leaves and pine needles that had built up against the buildings. They also walked alternate exit routes from SCOL to make sure they were free of obstacles.
After a productive morning’s work, the crew enjoyed lunch from a local Italian restaurant in Goldendale, complete with slices of cheesecake. While it was hot and dusty work, everyone left feeling grateful to have helped protect SCOL during this critical wildfire season.

