Wildfire Wednesdays #11 - Fire Season Heats Up - Wildfire Risk to Communities - WUFS Summit

Hello Fireshed Members,

Things are heating up in the Southwest. This last week was a big one for wildfire starts across New Mexico, and with that in mind, we have compiled some helpful resources for you to stay informed and active in conversations about your community’s wildfire hazard.

As fire season progresses, it is never too late to do some simple mitigation work around your house and we encourage you all to look back at some of our early posts for some simple ways that you can get involved.

This week’s Wildfire Wednesday includes:

• A 2020 fire season update and nmfireinfo.com and inciweb.nwcg.gov where you can get up-to-date information about active wildfires across the state.

• A webinar recording about how to use the new Wildfire Risk to Communities online map viewer.

• A call for presenters and save-the-date for the Wildland Urban Fire Summit this fall in Las Vegas, New Mexico.

Stay safe,

Gabe

Fire Season Heats Up

Uvas Fire- This photo was taken on Jun 7th of the ~1000 acre Uvas fire near Las Cruces. Photo from Inciweb.

We had 6 active wildfires reported over last weekend (6/5-6/7) and a couple early this week. As fire season heats up, you must know where to find accurate and up-to-date information about the wildfires that are occurring across the state.

The best place to find information about active wildfires across New Mexico is  NMFireInfo.com . This website is an interagency effort by the State of New Mexico, National Park Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Forest Service, and Bureau of Land Management to keep New Mexican's informed about current significant wildfires, fire restrictions, and helpful links to wildfire prevention information. Click on the +Follow tab in the lower right corner of NMFireInfo.com to sign up to get an e-mail when new NMFireInfo.com posts are added. 

Once an incident transitions from a new start to a larger fire that needs long-term management they are added to Inciweb. This interagency website provides the public with a single source of incident-related information and provides in-depth information such as maps, photos, and an archive of press releases. Click here to visit InciWeb

Wildfire Risk to Communities Webinar

Previously on the blog, we announced the new Wildfire Risk to Communities Viewer created by the US Forest Service and partners. Now you can view a recording of the webinar in which the creators of the website and the fire risk analysis explain how to use the new tool and all of its functions.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ivWol9_NEMs&feature=youtu.be

Wildfire Risk to Communities is a new free, easy-to-use website with interactive maps, charts, and resources to help communities understand, explore, and reduce wildfire risk. This website serves as a starting point to help community leaders be able to assess and reduce risk to homes, businesses, and other valued resources. Use this website to start conversations with neighbors, family members, and anyone else in your community about wildfire.

Call for Presenters for 2020 Wildland Urban Fire Summit (WUFS)

This year’s Wildland Urban Fire Summit will center around the theme, “All Lands, All Neighbors for Wildfire Resilience.” As a diverse network that bridges between agency officials, non-governmental organizations, private landowners, and many others, your work as a Fireshed Member is well-suited to this year’s summit theme. We hope you will all take a look at the attached Call for Presentations and consider sharing some of the wildfire adaptation work you are doing in your community.

Presentation ideas need to be submitted by July 31st, 2020 and the Summit is planned for October 22-23, 2020. Please save these dates.

To read the full Call for Presentations, click here.

Wildfire Wednesdays #10 - Ambassador Programs Nationwide - Fireshed Ambassadors - FACNM Leaders - COCO Grant Opportunity

Hello Fireshed Members,

The Fireshed Coalition helps us learn from the experiences of communities across the Coalition landscape and inspires action towards a more wildfire adapted future. In many ways, communities serve as a toolbox full of perspectives, experiences, and creative approaches to new problems. The broader the perspectives and experiences in our Fireshed communities, the more robust our toolbox becomes, and the stronger and more resilient we are.

With this in mind, this week’s Wildfire Wednesday focuses on approaches that we are using to build our community toolbox and bring in new voices to the conversation about wildfire preparedness.

This Blog Contains:

• An article about how ambassador approaches are making progress on wildfire adaptation nationwide

• An introduction to the Santa Fe Fireshed Ambassador Program

• An introduction to the FACNM Leader Program

• The Coalitions and Collaboratives Action, Implementation, and Monitoring Grant Opportunity

Best,

Gabe

An Ambassador by Any Name Doth Broaden Wildfire Resilience

Porfirio Chavarria shares a fire scenario with a neighborhood. A Fireshed Ambassador did all of the work to bring neighbors together to learn about their wildfire risk and what they can do to reduce their risk.

A recent blog post by Rebecca Samulski, of Fire Adapted Colorado, describes the many ways that volunteer neighborhood leaders have been effective at motivating community wildfire mitigation nationwide. Across the country, these volunteer neighborhood leaders go by different names. Here in New Mexico we have a statewide program of FACNM Leaders and a Santa Fe-specific program of Fireshed Ambassadors.

To learn more about how these ambassador approaches are being used across the country, click here to read Rebecca’s recent blog post on FAC Net.

Santa Fe Fireshed Ambassador Program

Fireshed Ambassadors help to bring their community together for informative events like this Society of American Foresters fieldtrip of the Fireshed.

An ambassador approach recognizes that action needs to be motivated from the grassroots scale and tailored to individual communities. The Santa Fe Fireshed Neighborhood Ambassador program means engaging with your neighborhood to help them understand their wildfire risk and encouraging them to take action, and motivating residents to take action to reduce that risk.

We are actively building a network of ambassadors in and around Santa Fe and need more volunteers! If you are concerned about the wildfire risk in your neighborhood and want to do something please join us.

As an Ambassador, you will bring together your community to work collaboratively on wildfire preparedness, mitigate wildfire risk to your homes, and promote and support each other’s efforts and the Fireshed Coalition partners and your fellow ambassadors will be here to support you.

To learn more and join us at our next meeting click below.

https://www.santafefireshed.org/ambassador

Fire Adapted New Mexico’s (FACNM) Leader Program

Working collaboratively will help motivate your community to mitigate wildfire risk to your homes and promote and support each other’s efforts.

Similar to the ambassador program but at a state wide scale, FACNM’s Leader program seeks to connect people motivated in creating fire adapted communities across the state to foster networks and facilitate idea sharing.

If you are concerned about the wildfire risk in your community and want to join others working in their communities please join us.

Coalitions and Collaboratives Action, Implementation, and Monitoring (AIM) Grant

Coalitions and Collaboratives works to foster on-the-ground conservation efforts that protect and restore natural resources and local communities by supporting collaborative conservation organizations, who produce collective impacts through stakeholder driven efforts.

Coalitions and Collaboratives works to foster on-the-ground conservation efforts that protect and restore natural resources and local communities by supporting collaborative conservation organizations, who produce collective impacts through stakeholder driven efforts.

Coalitions and Collaboratives (COCO) is releasing another round of AIM funding. The Pre-Application has been modified from the previous round to be less cumbersome. Attached below is the Request for Proposal, Pre-Application/Concept Paper, and an Example of the Strategic Value question.

Request for Proposal

Examples of Strategic Value Statement

Pre-Application Concept Paper

You can access the Round 5/Summer 2020 grant information on COCO's website: https://co-co.org/get-involved/grants/aim-grant/.

COCO hosted an informational webinar today Wednesday, June 3 at 1:30 MDT. A recording of the webinar will be posted on the website above.

Wildfire Wednesdays #9 - Fire Science Briefing Papers - SWFSC - Dr. Craig Allen Presentation

Hello all,

In the past two months we’ve shared a wealth of tips about preparing for wildfire, but becoming fire adapted is more than just doing, it’s also about understanding the role of wildfire in the forests, shrublands, and grasslands where we build our homes.

So today we’re taking a brief look into the wider world of wildfire. In New Mexico wildfire plays a varied role depending on the landscape, the conditions of the vegetation that burns, and the weather. Sometimes that role is crucial and beneficial and other times it causes serious harm.

We’re highlighting a few of the many resources available in New Mexico to take a dive into this fascinating world. Understanding the importance of the role of fire in our ecosystems and that wildfires won’t be going away is vital to becoming a fire adapted community.  

All the best, Sam

This Blog Contains:

• Briefing Papers on wildfire science topics from the Greater Santa Fe Fireshed Coalition

• Southwest Fire Science Consortium: Developing dialogue between fire scientists, managers, and the public

• Dr. Craig Allen presents: “The State and Fate of our Mountain Forests in New Mexico and the West.”

Fire Science Briefing Papers from the Greater Santa Fe Fireshed Coalition

With Santa Fe Fireshed Coalition the Forest Stewards Guild has produced a series of Briefing Papers to highlight and summarize important research in fire ecology topics. These papers have focussed on fire history, the impacts of wildfires on birds, and post-fire forest conversion to name a few. Each briefing paper was produced in collaboration with a scientist or professional in the field. Click the link below to check out these recently published papers.

https://www.santafefireshed.org/briefing-papers

The Southwest Fire Science Consortium (SWFSC)

The SWFSC helps bridge the gap between science and fire management decisions. The goal is to see that the best available science is used to make management decisions and that scientists and researchers are exploring questions that managers need to be answered. By advocating for and funding dialog between managers and researchers, the SWFSC fosters two-way collaboration. This process has demonstrated the power to solve the challenges of fire management and has generated a wide range of useful resources, including in-person events, webinars, factsheets, whitepapers, and more.

Click here to explore the practical resources on the SWFSC webpage!

Dr. Craig Allen Video Presentation:

“The State and Fate of our Mountain Forests in New Mexico and the West.”

We’re excited to share this video of Dr. Craig Allen who addressed a full house at the New Mexico Land Conservancy this winter when we could still gather.

Video of Craig Allen, Ph.D., is now available

“The State and Fate of our Mountain Forests in New Mexico and the West.”

Our first NMLC speaker event on January 28 was a success – a full house – thanks to our speaker that night, place-based ecologist, Dr. Craig Allen who generously dedicated an evening. Click the button below for a link to a video of his slide presentation, including an introduction from NMLC’s Executive Director, Scott Wilber, and ending with an interesting Q&A session.

Click Here To See The Video!

Wildfire Wednesday #8 - Wildfire Prevention - Fire Restrictions - Recreation Guidelines - PG&E Penalty

Hi Fireshed Members,

With Memorial Day weekend right around the corner people are eager to get outside after months of staying home, so this week we are dedicating Wildfire Wednesday to Wildfire Prevention.

In New Mexico, nearly half of the wildfires since 2000 have been human caused. People start wildfires in a variety of ways, including vehicle exhaust pipes, cigarette butts, dragging chains, and poorly extinguished campfires. The amount of human caused wildfires is closely correlated with summer holidays like Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day when many more people are out. With that in mind, please be safe this Memorial Day weekend, always check for fire restrictions before you recreate outdoors.

This week’s Wildfire Wednesday includes:

1. Fire prevention messages to be posted and shared on social media

2. Some helpful links to check fire restrictions across the state

3. COVID Outdoor Recreation Guidelines from the State of New Mexico

4. A recent court decision holds PG&E  accountable for the Camp fire that burned through the town of Paradise, CA and killed 85.

Stay safe,

Gabe

Please Help us Prevent Wildfire! Use these social media posts!

Please help prevent wildfire by sharing these messages on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or over email. If this simple step prevents one wildfire, it could save lives and will help keep our first responders safe during the 2020 fire season. Just add the flyer as a photo and use our suggested caption, or create one of your own.

Recreate Safely

Click Here to Download this Flyer!

Suggested Caption: Click Share and Help Prevent Wildfire: We all need your help to prevent wildfires this summer. The statewide average of human-caused wildfires in New Mexico is 48% of all wildfires and most of these fires can be prevented. Don’t drag chains, check spark arrestors on vehicles and equipment and for information about preventing wildfires over Memorial Day Weekend, visit https://nmfireinfo.com/   Suggested Hashtags: #recreateresponsibly #preventwildfire #nmfire #fireadaptednm

Know Before You Go

Click Here to Download this Flyer!

Suggested Caption: Click Share and Help Prevent Wildfire: Know Before You Go! Before you make plans to have any smores over the campfire check for current fire restrictions.  For more information, call the Fire Restrictions Hotline: 1-877-864-6985 or visit https://firerestrictions.us/nm/ 

Suggested Hashtags: #recreateresponsibly #preventwildfire #nmfire #fireadaptednm 

Do Your Part, Don’t Let A Wildfire Start

Click Here to Download this Flyer!

Suggested Caption: Click Share and Help Prevent Wildfire: Firefighters and first responders are needed more than ever to keep America safe . Prevent wildfires by following fire restrictions, postponing debris burning, and using campfire alternatives.  

Suggested Hashtags: #recreateresponsibly #preventwildfire #nmfire #fireadaptednm 

Current fire restrictions in New Mexico

Currently there are 74 different fire restrictions in place issued by the State of New Mexico, Counties, Pueblos and Tribes, and Federal agencies including NPS, USFS, BLM, BIA. These fire restrictions are in place to prevent human started wildfires that threaten firefighters and the public.  

It’s safe to assume that if you choose to recreate outdoors this Memorial Day weekend, campfires will be forbidden where you’re going. In addition, things such as fireworks, smoking outside of designated areas, welding, and driving off road through dry vegetation are prohibited in many circumstances as well.

To check on fire restrictions across New Mexico and in a specific locations please visit: https://firerestrictions.us/nm/

On this site you can click on the map at the top of the page to see the fire restrictions that apply to your area or scroll through all restrictions that have been issued state wide or by jurisdiction.

State of New Mexico - COVID Outdoor Recreation Guidelines

Be Safe, Respectful While Enjoying the Outdoors

#RecreateResponsibly, New Mexico

The State of New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division has issued some guidance for recreating while minimizing the potential to escalate  impacts.  all know the solace and comfort that spending some time outdoors can provide and it’s possible to get out here and stay safe too.

You can read the full guidance here but check out the ten rules below. The second rule is  about preventing wildfires!

Ten rules for New Mexicans looking to get outside:

1. The health of others should still be your top priority. Bring a mask whenever you recreate and put in on when approaching other groups. Practice physical distancing.

2. Forget about campfires. There are statewide fire restrictions in place. Check this site for details on fire bans before you go on a trip.

3. Avoid crowded trailheads. Have a back-up plan if your favorite spot is too crowded. Remember, the State Parks that are open are operating under limited, day-use only capacity.

4. Check for closures. Check the land management agencies’ websites before venturing out to recreate. Many of these places are closed right now to protect both recreationists and staff.

5. Practice Leave No Trace principles. Pack it in, pack it out. Protect your fellow outdoor recreationists. Protect the natural resources.

6. Be prepared. Many developed recreation sites (including bathrooms) remain closed. Be self-sufficient by bringing in your own snacks, waters, and trash bags.

7. You can only camp overnight at dispersed, remote campsites. All public and private developed campsites remain closed.

8. You can book some outdoor guided trips and coaching sessions. You must still adhere to all group-size limits and physical distancing rules. Don’t go out if you are sick. If you are not exhibiting symptoms, wear a mask to protect your guide or coach. Follow all the Covid-safe practices outlined by the Governor’s Office.  

9. Gear rentals can resume. So long as the equipment is properly and thoroughly sanitized between uses.

10. Public gatherings, events, and camping in developed sites are still banned.

California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) holds PG&E accountable for Wildfires

The electrical grid is one of the key sources of human-caused wildfires. A recent court decision holds public utilities accountable for wildfires started by faulty infrastructure.

In California, PG&E  is being required to pay a $1.93 billion penalty for starting wildfires in 2017 and 2018 that included The Camp Fire that burned through Paradise, CA. Hopefully, this decision sends a  strong message to public utilities that they are accountable for wildfires created by faulty infrastructure. Still, with the windy and dry conditions in New Mexico this time of year, it is essential that we all play our part and report unsafe conditions to our electric utility providers.

To read the full story, click here.

Webinar Recordings:

Did you miss either the Alert Santa Fe webinar or the Home ignition Zone Webinar? Recordings of both are available now:

Alert Santa Fe Webinar Recording: https://www.santafefireshed.org/emergency

Home Ignition Zone https://www.santafefireshed.org/prepareyourhome/#HIZWebinar

Ready Set Go and Go-Kits https://www.santafefireshed.org/emergency

Wildfire Wednesdays #7 - Ready, Set, Go! - Wildfire Ready Rap - Film Festival

Hello!

With the sunny days and high winds this spring we’ve seen more and more Red Flag (high fire danger) days and a few wildfires starting across New Mexico. As we barrel along toward summer, it’s important to continue to do everything you can to prepare for wildfire.

Best, Sam

In this Blog we have:

• The Ready Set Go! Program, an all-inclusive wildfire preparedness program.

• “Wildfire Ready Rap” by Ready Raccoon, not much more to say about this, it’s awesome!

• The Wild and Scenic Film Festival with a short film about prescribed fire in the Southern US

• Upcoming webinars and webinar recordings

Ready, Set, Go!

The Ready, Set, Go! program empowers residents living in the wildland urban interface with the knowledge they need to be better prepared for responding to a wildfire in their community. Each step of the program addresses wildfire preparedness at a different stage. The Ready stage is to proactively reduce the risk of wildfire impacts to your home through mitigation techniques like defensible space, keeping gutters clean, and planting fire resistant landscaping around your home. The Set stage is to be prepared to leave your home quickly in the event of an evacuation order. Actions in the Set stage include putting together a “go bag” with important papers, medications etc. The final stage is to GO! and follow the evacuation order when/if it comes. Have an evacuation plan ready, know where you and your family will meet up if you get separated and don’t wait to leave.

Click the links below to learn more:

Santa Fe County - Ready, Set, Go!

National Ready Set Go Program

To learn more about Santa Fe County’s Ready Set Go program and detailed instruction about creating a Go-Bag join us for tomorrows webinar:

Ready Set Go Santa Fe and Go-Bags Webinar

May 14, 2020 10:00 AM in Mountain Time

Click here to register!

“Wildfire Ready Rap” by Ready Raccoon

Ready Raccoon is Butte Fire Department’s wildfire preparedness mascot and now he’s got a theme song. Ready Raccoon will be out dancing and grooving to the song below at community gatherings and events in California. He’s designed this song to not only inspire people to dance, but remember that it’s always good to be prepared in case of a wildfire! This song is awesome!

“Wildfire Ready Rap” Webpage

Wild and Scenic Film Festival by the Santa Fe Watershed Association

The Santa Fe Watershed Association is hosting its annual Wild and Scenic Film Festival streaming to your home this year! Of particular interest to our members is the film Into the Black -

Into the Black film description:

Human ignited ‘prescribed burns,’ are an essential technique to mimic natural processes that maintain and restore critical habitats. With extensive efforts to restore large areas of native habitats, partnerships are critical to provide the capacity necessary to implement fire on the scale needed.

Visit the website below for more information.

https://www.santafewatershed.org/wild-and-scenic-film-festival/

Webinars

Did you miss either the Alert Santa Fe webinar or the Home ignition Zone Webinar?

Alert Santa Fe Webinar Recording:

https://www.santafefireshed.org/emergency

Home Ignition Zone

https://www.santafefireshed.org/prepareyourhome/#HIZWebinar

Upcoming Webinars:
Ready, Set, Go! Santa Fe and Go-Bags from the Santa Fe Fireshed Coalition

May 14, 2020 10:00 AM in Mountain Time

Click here to register!

In this hour-long webinar Remington Gillum, the wildland Specialist at Santa Fe County will present on the Ready, Set, Go Program, an all-inclusive program to prepare you and your family for wildfire. Ann Church of Villages of Santa Fe will then show you how to construct a Go-Bag, an evacuation bag that contains a supply of items you would need to safely evacuate your home.