2014 Research Highlights
Examining Trade-offs in Wildland Fire Management Decisions
Major investments are being made throughout the United States to reduce or mitigate the negative effects of wildland fire on ecological and social values. Managing wildland fire requires an in-depth understanding of complex interactions among environmental factors and human dimensions that affect the frequency, extent, intensity, and severity of wildfires. Opinions differ on how to best balance the predisposition and ecological need for wildfire with social norms and values; no universal solution exists. In 2010, Congress passed legislation requiring the Federal agencies responsible for wildland fire management to work with states, tribes, and other interested publics to develop the National Cohesive Wildland Fire Management Strategy. Interagency planning committees are actively working to identify and implement options for leveraging resources to improve landscape resiliency, protect human communities, and coordinate wildfire response.
Scientists from the Eastern Threat Center lead the science and analysis team commissioned to provide analytical support to development of the Cohesive Strategy. Using a structured risk assessment and decision process collaboratively developed by the Eastern Threat Center, the science team is working with interagency partners to identify and explore alternative courses of action. A recently completed national analysis of potential policy options and their opportunities for success was delivered to Congress and is being used to prioritize strategic action.
Forest Service Partners/Collaborators: State and Private Forestry; Fire and Aviation Management
External Partners/Collaborators: US Department of Interior and multiple other agencies and institutions
Contact: Danny C. Lee, (828) 257-4854, danny.c.lee@usda.gov
