Perspective: Fire in Carolina North Forest
By Clara Zelasky
On Wednesday, May 20, there was a fire on the western side of Carolina North Forest, approximately ½ mile from Bolin Creek. The fire reportedly started below Seawell Elementary School and extended downhill toward the creek and the cause is still unknown.
I hiked to the burn area starting from the Hanford Road entrance off Pathway Drive. After crossing the bridge, I followed the gravel path toward Wilson Park (the OWASA corridor), passing the rusted-out old car along the way. Before reaching Wilson Park, I turned left onto a trail that climbs up to the Occoneechee Loop and approached the burn area from behind.
The majority of the fire appeared to be on the P.H. Craig property, which was clear-cut in 2018. Since then, the area had developed a significant new growth of pine trees, many of them 10–15 feet tall, with low-hanging branches and very little spacing between the trees.
In many places, the Occoneechee Loop Trail acted as a natural firebreak, although in a few areas the fire had jumped the trail. Despite recent heavy rain, many spots were still smoking and smoldering.
I spoke to a Carrboro firefighter who said it was the largest fire in the woods that he has seen during his 38 years with the department. It was devastating to see so much destruction. These are my photos from the hike.
