NFCA Supports IAFC's Commitment to the Wildland Fire Mitigation & Management Commission Report

On September 27, 2023 the Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission’s final report was submitted to Congress. The report outlines a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to address the escalating wildfire crisis that has gripped our nation in recent years. In response, the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has released its Policy Response and Recommendations on the commission’s final report. Additionally, the Western Fire Chiefs Association (WFCA) Board of Directors has elected to offer its wholehearted support to the IAFC and its commitment to the Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission report. The Nevada Fire Chiefs Association (NFCA) Board of Directors met recently to review the final report as well as the IAFC’s Policy Response and Recommendations. Under the heading of Enabling Beneficial Fire, the NFCA has significant issues with the practice of Wildfire Management for Resource Benefit Objectives. Time and time again we see examples of the mismanagement of these fires in Nevada and across the West. It is essential to strike a balance between achieving resource benefit objectives and ensuring the safety of communities and the preservation of natural resources. By implementing a standardized approach that incorporates best practices, it is possible to improve the management of wildfires for resource benefit while minimizing negative impacts on communities and natural resources. This approach requires a collaborative effort from various stakeholders, including government agencies, communities, and environmental organizations to ensure its success. With the exception noted above, we believe that the report's recommendations are a significant step towards mitigating the wildfire crisis that plagues our nation. We are committed to working alongside the WFCA and IAFC, as well as our State and Federal partners, to advance these critical initiatives and protect our communities, natural resources, and those who tirelessly serve on the front lines. It is past time to address the critical issue of Wildfire Management for Resource Benefit before more communities are negatively impacted and valuable natural resources lost.