The upheaval and devastation for North State residents and families has been dramatic and total for many, as the Carr Fire continues to take its toll in Northern California. Many families still do not know if they have homes to return to. The firestorm was so unmercifully fast that many evacuees got out with literally the clothes on their backs. This fire alone, now the seventh largest in state history, has scarred over 112,000 acres.

Rebuilding and recovery for some is even now beginning for the over 1,000 residences, not over 1,000 individuals but over 1,000 families that have been burnt out suffering total loses. Over 38,000 people at one time during this catastrophe were under evacuation orders.  I urge anyone that is able to, please make donations to the American Red Cross or other organizations with notations on those donations earmarking them for Carr Fire Victims and Recovery.

As part of the recovery efforts for an area that has a strong outdoor and fishing culture, local Northern California Guide and fellow member of the Nor Cal Guide and Sportsmans' Association Captain Anthony Cox, of AC Guide Service, is spearheading a drive to collect and distribute new and/or slightly used fishing rods and reels along with fishing tackle for children impacted by this fire. Anthony is urging guides with sponsor programs to solicit assistance from their sponsors as well as seeking assistance from individual sportsmen and women who know the value of children and fishing. It is a small part that we as sportsmen can do as part of the recovery process.

To make donations or offer assistance in Anthony's efforts, please contact him at 530- 474-5241 or 408-891-0983. Anthony is hoping to collect and distribute the items by August 31 and is working to develop drop off locations in the area.  As more information and locations are developed I will post updates on myoutdoorbuddy.com.

Continue to keep all fire areas, those impacted, and especially those fighting the fires and protecting the people and property, in your thoughts and prayers.

Gary Heffley has been a valued contributor to MyOutdoorBuddy for over 10 years serving as manager, sales representative and reporter for much of Northern California. He is an avid outdoorsman and loves to fish and write about his adventures. He has a long history in the Sporting Goods field and uses that extensive experience to impart his wisdom in his writing.