February 17, 2026 – CAL FIRE officials announce many conifer species only produce large seed crops about once every 2–3 years — making the timing of seed collection critical for forest recovery after wildfire.

New research from UC Davis supported by CAL FIRE’s LA Moran Reforestation Center, is helping scientists and land managers to better predict when cones are ripe and ready to collect, using decades of historical data and modeling to improve planning for seed banking and reforestation.

With better forecasts of cone ripeness, nurseries and restoration projects can build stronger seed supplies to help forests grow back after major fires.

More information here: Finding that Ripe Cone Sweet Spot: Looking Back to Help the Future

View video here.

Source & photo: CAL FIRE