Community Wildfire Defense in the Greater Santa Fe Fireshed

As conscientious landowners and residents, it is our shared responsibility to fortify our homes against the looming specter of fire. The frequency and intensity of wildfires are on the rise, underscoring the urgent need for proactive measures. By taking steps to prepare our homes and communities, we not only safeguard our properties but also contribute to the collective resilience of our neighborhood.

Through the Fire Safe Santa Fe project, we aim to assist landowners in their efforts to create fire-resilient communities across the Greater Santa Fe Fireshed

Where do I even start?

1: Schedule a FREE Home Hazard Assessment

Funded through the Community Wildfire Defense Grant (CWDG), the Fireshed Ambassador Program team is offering complimentary home hazard assessments for those within the Greater Santa Fe Fireshed.

This personalized evaluation includes a detailed work plan, pinpointing specific areas that require attention. Armed with this comprehensive guide, you can tackle the mitigation work independently or hire a professional contractor for a seamless and efficient solution. Our commitment is to empower you with the knowledge and tools needed to fortify your home against wildfire threats at no cost.

2: DIY Home Hazard Assessment with Our Guide

For those inclined towards a hands-on approach, our detailed Do-It-Yourself (DIY) home hazard assessment guide is for you. This step-by-step resource equips you with the necessary insights to identify vulnerable areas around your property. By following our comprehensive instructions, you can take charge of assessing and mitigating the risks on your own terms.

In both options, the goal is to empower homeowners with the knowledge and resources needed to create a resilient, fire-resistant home. Whether you choose the expertise of a professional assessment or the hands-on experience of a DIY approach, our collective commitment is to enhance the safety and preparedness of our communities. Let’s work together to build homes that stand strong against the growing challenges of wildfire seasons.

How do I get my neighbors involved?

Start by fostering open communication through neighborhood meetings or online platforms where residents can share concerns and insights. Consider organizing community workshops or events on wildfire preparedness, inviting local experts to provide valuable insights. Sharing success stories from those who have already taken steps towards hazard reduction can inspire others to follow suit. Emphasize the collective impact of a fire-ready community and highlight the benefits of mutual support during challenging times. Collaborative efforts not only amplify the effectiveness of wildfire mitigation but also strengthen the sense of community and shared responsibility. Encourage the formation of neighborhood groups dedicated to wildfire preparedness, where residents can exchange ideas, resources, and support each other on this crucial journey towards creating safer, more resilient neighborhoods. Remember, in the face of wildfire threats, unity is our greatest asset.

Isn’t mitigation work expensive?

It doesn’t have to be! The misconception that wildfire hazard reduction is an exorbitant endeavor often dissuades homeowners from taking crucial mitigation steps. However, the truth is that creating a defensible space can be cost-effective, especially when considering the potential losses and damages incurred during a wildfire.

For your property:

In March 2023, the Forest Stewards Guild was awarded a $1.3 million Community Wildfire Defense grant aimed to financially support private landowners doing wildfire mitigation work. This grant has paved the way for a new cost-share program, providing landowners with a unique opportunity to offset the financial burden of implementing crucial wildfire mitigation measures on their properties. Through this initiative, landowners can now receive partial reimbursement for their efforts in reducing wildfire risk, fostering a collaborative approach to wildfire prevention and community resilience. To apply for this program, or receive more information, reach out to the Fireshed Coordinator.

For your community:

Landowners have an opportunity to organize and host community events aimed at enhancing wildfire preparedness, thanks to the FACNM microgrant program. With a focus on fostering community resilience, these microgrants cover a wide range of initiatives, including wildfire preparedness events, home hazard assessment days, defensible space or home hardening community workdays, evacuation planning and education sessions, post-fire erosion mitigation preparations, and SimTable hosting, among others. Additionally, the microgrants extend support towards equipment rentals, slash disposal, and even proposal development/writing to ensure the success and sustainability of these events.

Proposals emphasizing community benefit or capacity building within the Fire Adapted Communities New Mexico framework will be considered semi-annually, providing landowners ample opportunity to access funding for vital community-building endeavors. Grantees are granted a twelve-month window from the time of award to implement their proposed initiatives, facilitating meaningful and lasting impact within their communities.

The GSFFC is a coalition of public and private organizations. The GSFFC is not a subdivision of the State of New Mexico, as defined in the state’s Open Meetings Act, §§ 10-15-1 to 10-15-4 NMSA 1978. Although federal agencies participate in the GSFFC, the Coalition is not a federal advisory board and was not created by a federal agency, as defined by the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA), 5.U.S.C. app. 2, §§ 1 to 16 (2012). The GSFFC operates informally to support its partners, and is not incorporated as a non-profit, 501(C)(3), partnership, or other legal status.