Study shows social fragmentation complicates wildfire mitigation, evacuation, and community fire adaptation efforts.
This 2021 FireEarth science brief examines how social fragmentation influences wildfire management in rural, fire-prone communities. Based on focus groups conducted in Bonner County, Idaho, and Pend Oreille County, Washington, researchers explored how land ownership patterns, absentee landowners, second-home residency, and limited social cohesion affect wildfire preparedness and mitigation. The study finds that weak familiarity, communication gaps, and divergent landowner priorities can complicate evacuation planning, voluntary fuel reduction, zoning efforts, and public lands management. Participants emphasized the importance of trust-building, shared values, and inclusive public deliberation to support collective action. The brief concludes that strengthening community ties and addressing evolving social dynamics are critical to fostering fire-adapted communities capable of preparing for, responding to, and recovering from wildfire while allowing fire to play its ecological role.
The production of this science brief was supported by the National Science Foundation through award DMS-1520873.
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Authors
Kirkpatrick, A. and Hall, S. A.
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Suggested Citation
Kirkpatrick, A.W., Hall, S.A. 2021. Addressing Social Fragmentation Is Key to Effective Wildfire Management. FireEarth Science Brief 03. Center for Sustaining Agriculture & Natural Resources, Washington State University.
Year Published
2021
Areas of Focus
Climate & Environment and Research Engagement & Communication
Topics
Climate Change, Community Engaged Research, and Natural Resources
