Promoting proactive wildfire mitigation
Many of the large wildfires that occur across Nevada each year happen in wildlands that are adjacent to communities, resulting in large-scale evacuations, substantial loss of property, extensive smoke inhalation and significant economic impacts on business and commerce. Wildfire preparedness education and the implementation of fire adapted community concepts can contribute to the long-term health of Nevada’s landscapes and the safety of its communities.
University of Nevada Cooperative Extension developed the Defensible Space Professional Training Program to equip landscape architects and contractors with the knowledge and tools necessary for creating fire-safe landscaping around residential and commercial buildings. Trainings include interactive classroom lessons and an applied field assessment in a local neighborhood with fire agency representative, protecting lives and property as well as reducing the financial burden of full-scale firefighting operations and costly medical treatments for fire-related injuries. Communities will benefit from enhanced resilience, decreased economic disruptions and strengthened social cohesion, as neighbors work together toward wildfire preparedness.
By advancing fire science research and fostering collaboration among local agencies, community organizations and residents, this initiative is improving fire management strategies with proactive wildfire measures that will contribute to healthier landscapes, lower mortality rates and the preservation of natural resources.
View the full statement on the NIDB.
Project supported by State Appropriations. Photo courtesy of University of Nevada Cooperative Extension.
