One of the biggest challenges to increasing the pace and scale of prescribed fire is not necessarily the most obvious. Although weather windows that meet prescriptions, adequate staffing, and social support are necessary, policy is increasingly known to be a critical barrier. The Ember Alliance has been actively working to improve prescribed fire policy across multiple fronts, which would address some of these barriers.
Last week, I had the opportunity to speak with Senators, Congressmembers, and agency heads about the important roles that nonprofits and private contractors play in leading prescribed fire work on private land and the policy barriers that they face in expanding their efforts. This was part of broader conversations around the importance of collaboration on wildfire and fuels management issues, with a particular focus on the Northern Colorado Fireshed Collaborative – a project that we are involved with at every level. I was proud to highlight the strong work of our team to these assembled dignitaries and look forward to continuing these discussions with other staffers.
Our work to address policy issues like liability, insurance, and training barriers will take time and collaboration. Through partners and passion, we will continue our efforts to build a just, equitable, and safe framework for more good fire.
Daniel Godwin, Director of Programs and Partnerships
