After the Blast

The eruption of Mount St. Helens in 1980, initially viewed as a catastrophic event, became a pivotal moment for ecologists seeking to understand ecological recovery. A team, led by forest scientist Jerry Franklin, discovered vibrant life emerging just weeks after the disaster, challenging preconceived notions about recovery times. Eric Wagner's narrative explores this unexpected resilience, showcasing the diverse flora and fauna that thrived in the aftermath and reshaping ecological theories on recovery from destruction.