Portland State Magazine Winter 2019

7 AFTER A FIRE , forest managers often turn to salvage logging and replanting in an attempt to regenerate conifer forests, but according to a new study by researchers at PSU and Oregon State University, such actions might be unnecessary. The study found that 20 years after the Klamath fires in southwestern Oregon and northern California, even in severely burned areas Douglas fir trees grew back on their own. “We forget about the power of natural regeneration,” says Melissa Lucash, geography faculty at PSU and a co-author of the study. Lucash suggests that resources could instead be reallocated elsewhere, perhaps to thinning forests to prevent extreme wildfires.  The power of natural regeneration PARK BLOCKS ALYSSA HEMINGER cried when she found out she qualified for PSU’s Transfers Finish Free program. Now, instead of taking out private loans to finance her education, Heminger can put her money toward study abroad programs or graduate school. “I have been afforded unimaginable opportunities,” says Heminger, 21, who transferred from Portland Community College. This program and the Four Years Free opportunity for freshmen brought more than 2,000 new students to PSU this year. Both programs cover tuition and fees for full-time, low- income students who are eligible for federal Pell grants and Oregon Opportunity Grants. Free tuition draws students