Encircle Films: Living with Fire, Burning to Heal

In partnership with the Upper Willamette Soil and Water Conservation District, the “Living with Fire” event explores the deep connections between fire, people, and landscapes through three compelling films. From the work of Prescribed Burn Associations empowering communities, to the science and practice of ecological burning, to Indigenous-led Traditional Knowledge Inquiry programs, these films highlight the role of fire in land stewardship, resilience, and cultural tradition. Join us for an evening of powerful storytelling and critical conversations about how our local community is adapting to wildfire. The featured film for the event is “Burning to Heal” by local videographer and documentary filmmaker, Michael Sherman. The other two films are “Cultural Burn at Smithfield Oaks: Re-Kindling a Relationship with Fire”, and “Ecological Burning – Prescribed Fire”. The Almeda Fire blew through Southern Oregon burning over 2,500 homes. Just three years later, a landowner, fire professionals, and community members are working to bring fire back to the land in a positive way. “Burning to Heal” is a short documentary examining our relationship with fire, and how that relationship could evolve into the future. On June 29, 2023, members of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians and the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde led a cultural burn at Smithfield Oaks, a 188-acre property acquired by Polk Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) in 2019. The film “Cultural Burn at Smithfield Oaks: Re-Kindling a Relationship with Fire”, takes you on a journey on how and why cultural burning is used as a land management tool by the Tribes throughout the Willamette Valley. Ecological burning, also known as prescribed fire, plays a huge role in restoring and preserving habitat and maintaining public safety. The film “Ecological Burning – Prescribed Fire”, shows the Willamette Valley’s historical relationship with fire and highlighting efforts in the Eugene area. Total screening time for the 3 films is 42 minutes. Q&A discussion panel following the films.DocumentaryPT1H30M2025-03-20Encircle Films: Living with Fire, Burning to Heal"Encircle Films: Living with Fire, Burning to Heal"

Showtimes

March 20, 6:30 pm