A fire on Santa Rosa Island, sparked by flares from a shipwrecked sailor, burned over 18,300 acres and threatened the rare Torrey Pines grove. Most trees survived, but the event highlights conservation challenges.
- The fire was 97% contained by May 20, with the Torrey Pines grove largely intact. - The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden's seed bank provides an insurance policy for potential replanting.
- The island hosts 46 endemic species and has a history of human habitation and ranching. - Conservationists are assessing damage and preparing for future fires under climate change.