# Wildfires Are Turning Western Forests Into Shrubland Researchers warn that fires are permanently altering forest landscapes. - **Source:** [NYT > Science](https://brifing.si/source/794f9fbd-c10f-44d6-932d-9039af67922c) - **Published:** 2026-08-23 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/bd7968aa-6014-45e2-89bb-caba19f031ff ## Forests Transforming Into Shrubland The towering forests of the American West are permanently turning into spiky shrublands due to increasing wildfires. Researchers emphasize that this change is an irreversible process. Over the past 20 years, forest cover in the region has decreased by 15%. This shift is deeply affecting the ecological balance of the area. ## Impact of Climate Change Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of fires, weakening forests' ability to regenerate. The record-breaking 2020 fire season burned over 4 million hectares. Experts predict this trend will continue, with shrublands replacing forests. This change also negatively impacts the region's water cycle. ## Ecological Consequences The conversion of forests to shrubland is causing many species to lose their habitats. Birds and mammals are among the most affected by this transformation. The decline in biodiversity is also weakening ecosystem services. This situation negatively impacts sectors like agriculture and tourism. ## Increasing Fire Intensity In recent years, the intensity and spread rate of fires have significantly increased. The 2021 Dixie Fire destroyed over 963,000 hectares. Drought and high temperatures are the main reasons behind these devastating fires. Forest management experts state that traditional fire prevention methods are now inadequate. ## The Region's Future Research shows that up to 30% of Western forests could turn into shrubland within the next 50 years. This transformation will also affect the region's climate and water resources. The reduction in forests may decrease carbon absorption, accelerating climate change. Experts urge immediate action. ## Impact on Local Communities The loss of forests is profoundly affecting the lifestyles of local communities. Traditional hunting and gathering groups face dwindling resources. Additionally, increasing fires threaten residential areas. In 2020, thousands were forced to evacuate their homes. ## Economic Effects The conversion of forests to shrubland negatively impacts the timber and paper industries. The region's forestry sector has shrunk by 20% over the past decade. Tourism revenues are also declining, with visitor numbers to national parks dropping significantly due to fires. ## Call for Urgent Action Scientists stress the need for immediate measures to protect forests. Fire prevention strategies must be revised, and climate change mitigation prioritized. Reforestation projects are also being considered to compensate for losses. Without these efforts, the region's ecological balance could collapse. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.nytimes.com/2026/08/23/climate/wildfire-forest-loss-california-southwest.html — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._