Wildfire in California: A Debate presented by NCEAS & the UCSB Affiliates

Tuesday, August 25, 2026

6:00 PM at Validation Ale (Funk Zone)

Register here!

After the debate, the audience will join the conversation, ask questions, and vote on who made the most convincing argument.

Register here for the debate! 

Meet our debaters:

Ben Halpern, NCEAS Director

• Marine ecologist and professor at UCSB’s Bren School

• Leads global research on ocean management and conservation

• Work includes marine protected areas (MPAs), Human impact on oceans, and the Ocean Health Index

Max Moritz, Cooperative Extension Specialist in Fire

Since 1995, the National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis (NCEAS) has been a global leader in environmental data science—ranking in the top 1% of ecological research institutions. We accelerate discoveries that deepen understanding of our planet and drive solutions for people and nature. 

Learn more at nceas.ucsb.edu

The UCSB Affiliates is led by a volunteer board of community members and campus representatives passionate about creating innovative and community- centered programming. The goal of the UCSB Affiliates is to build and celebrate connections between UC Santa Barbara and the greater Santa Barbara community. We provide a pathway for community members to learn more about UC Santa Barbara and participate in campus activities. Through our events and newsletters, we highlight exciting campus-community partnerships and initiatives.

Learn more at communityrelations.ucsb.edu/ucsb-affiliates