Science brief examining private-citizen fire suppression through a rangeland case study in Idaho.
This 2021 FireEarth science brief explores the formation and function of the Black Canyon Rangeland Fire Protection Association (RFPA) in southwestern Idaho. As wildfire activity increases across the western United States due to historical fire suppression and climate change, RFPAs represent a model of cooperative wildfire management that allows trained private citizens to assist with suppression on public rangelands. Based on interviews with 29 RFPA members and agency liaisons, the study identifies key factors influencing the organization’s development, including prior conflicts over land access, the importance of communication and joint training, and the influence of local context such as fragmented land ownership, aging populations, and rugged terrain. The brief concludes that local conditions strongly shape how private-citizen fire management groups form and function, and that similar rural, land-based communities may apply these lessons to strengthen wildfire response and collaboration.
Production of this science brief was supported by the National Science Foundation through award DMS-1520873.
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Authors
Whittemore, A. and Hall, S. A.
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Suggested Citation
Whittemore, A.M., Hall, S.A. 2021. Private-Citizen Involvement in Fire Management: A Case Study of the Black Canyon Rangeland Fire Protection Association. FireEarth Science Brief 05. Center for Sustaining Agriculture and 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
