Wildfire damages Navy base on San Clemente Island, California

San Clemente Island, owned by the U.S. Navy, has served as a military training ground for nearly 90 years. In late July, a wildfire ravaged over 13,000 acres of the island, impacting areas with rare habitats for endangered species, including the San Clemente loggerhead shrike. The fire's origin is suspected to be linked to live-fire military exercises, although the exact cause remains uncertain. Prior to the blaze, California National Guard units conducted training that involved firing howitzer shells and mortar rounds. Navy spokesman Kevin Dixon indicated that the increased grass growth from two years of above-normal rainfall may have contributed to the fire's intensity. NASA's Worldview tool detected the wildfire early on July 24, highlighting the urgency of the situation. Historical assessments have shown that military training on the island raises the risk of wildfires, particularly in the southern region where bombardment occurs. Despite the extensive damage, Navy personnel took precautions by relocating captive breeding cages for native species, which ultimately remained unharmed. The island's ecosystem has been resilient, with efforts to restore native flora and eliminate invasive species like feral goats. However, the recent wildfire underscores the ongoing challenges of balancing military operations with environmental conservation. The incident raises concerns about the impact of military activities on sensitive habitats and the potential for future wildfires. As the Navy continues its training exercises, the need for effective fire management strategies becomes increasingly critical to protect both military interests and the island's unique biodiversity.