The need for protection from uncontrolled fire in California was identified by Abbott Kinney, Chairman of the State Board of Forestry, more than 75 years before the construc-tion of the Riverside Forest Fire Laboratory. With the organization of the USDA Forest Service the need for an effective fire protection organization became apparent. In response, a somewhat fragmented research program got under way in the 19 10's. Although the research was successful in reducing fire damage undermost conditions, severe fire years still made it clear that a strong cohesive fire research effort, headquartered at an adequate laboratory was necessary. However, the Fire Laboratory did not "just happen." It was the result of considerable organized public and private support. During the 50 years prior to the dedication of the Laboratory, and the 25 years since, there has been an effort to balance a pragmatic approach toward dealing directly with the fire manager, and also maintaining scientific excellence. There are currently six research projects at the Laboratory with emphases on fire management and the beneficial use of fire, forest recreation, effects of air pollution on forest ecosystem, and watershed management