Curry County Community Wildfire Protection Plan Community Guide February 2008 Available online at: http://www.co.curry.or.us and http://ri.uoregon.edu/programs/CCE/curry.html Curry County Community Wildfire Protection Plan: Community Guide Page 1 Introduction Curry County is one of the most dramatic and beautiful places in Oregon. Rugged mountains and towering forests meet ocean views and colorful sunsets. The natural forces that make Curry County a beautiful place to live also provide economic opportunities through recreation, tourism, agriculture, logging and mining, to name a few. But the Biscuit Fire of 2002 highlighted the fact that these same natural forces also bring inevitable risks that can only be mitigated through careful preparation and planning. Following the Biscuit Fire, many people involved in land management and emergency response recognized a need to better prepare for the next wildfire event. Their efforts started with a project to identify vulnerable structures in southern part of the county that were most threatened by the Biscuit Fire. They also formed a collaborative team to address wildfire issues. Today, the Curry Wildfire Preparation Team (CWPT) includes representatives from the local fire protection districts, the Curry Fire Chief’s Association, Curry County Emergency Services, Bureau of Land Management – Coos Bay District, Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, Coos Forest Protective Association, County GIS, municipal governments, the South Coast Watershed Councils, and the Lower Rogue Watershed Councils. With funds from a National Fire Plan grant, the CWPT expanded the effort evaluate structural vulnerability to wildfire through the entire county and they initiated the process to develop this Curry County Community Wildfire Protection Plan. The original goals of the National Fire Plan grant included the following: • Establish a collaborative process for public education and prevention opportunities. • Create maps and information for emergency management services countywide. • Identify and target high hazard structures and areas. • Identify and prioritize defensible space and fuels projects to accomplish protection needs. Additionally, the grant sought to provide Curry County and its communities a baseline of information on structural vulnerability within the wildland urban interface (WUI) in order to develop a Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP.) This plan documents the efforts of local, state, and federal partners in Curry County to accomplish these goals and establish clear strategies for reducing wildfire risk throughout the county. Purpose of the CWPP Community Guide The full Curry County CWPP is a comprehensive document that details information on a wide range of issues from county demographics and vulnerable populations, to structural vulnerability and wildfire risk. The CWPT felt that is was critical to provide an abridged version of the CWPP to citizens throughout the county to ensure that the resources provided would be as accessible as possible. This CWPP Community Guide summarizes the key findings, recommendations and actions, and priorities for fuels reduction identified in the plan. Hard copies of the full CWPP can be found in city and county government offices, fire districts, libraries, and watershed council offices throughout the county. An electronic version can be downloaded at: http://www.co.curry.or.us/ or http://ri.uoregon.edu/programs/CCE/curry.html. Curry County Community Wildfire Protection Plan: Community Guide Page 2 Plan Mission The mission of the Curry County Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) is to protect life, property, and natural and cultural resources from wildfire by reducing structural vulnerability and increasing the ability of local, state, and federal agencies, community organizations, and the general public to manage wildfire risk through effective preparation, response and recovery. Guiding Principles for the Planning Process The CWPT adopted these guiding principles in developing the process and priorities that defined this CWPP planning process. • Create a plan that addresses the needs of all populations in the county, including low-income, elderly, disabled, and minority residents, as well as those with other special needs. • Create a multi-objective approach through the planning process and implementation that addresses other natural hazards that affect the county. • Understand the key problems in the county and identify appropriate solutions. • Meet state and federal requirements for wildfire planning to be competitive for grants. • Create a plan that is useable by the public and partners involved with the plan. • Develop plan actions and an implementation strategy that recognizes the capacity and limitations of the county and partners involved with the fire plan. Plan Goals and Objectives The diverse goals and objectives described in this plan reflect the complexity inherent in planning for wildfire disasters. These goals and objectives also underscore the intent to produce a plan that is collaborative, inclusive and proactive. Goal 1. Foster partnerships and collaboration • Foster active participation from public agencies, community organizations, fire districts, and the public through plan development and implementation. • Devise a process that results in practical benefits and focuses efforts by all partners. • Prioritize activities given limited funding. • Coordinate activities and use information from the Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan and other existing plans within the county. Goal 2. Conduct a comprehensive risk assessment • Integrate the structural vulnerability assessment within the risk assessment. • Use good photos and maps to illustrate risk and communicate information to the public. • Tie the risk assessment process to requirements for Senate Bill 360. • Consider scenic and aesthetic values and the needs of vulnerable and Endangered Species Act listed species in the risk assessment. • Ensure the fire risk from invasive, exotic species are included in the risk assessment. Curry County Community Wildfire Protection Plan: Community Guide Page 3 Goal 3. Support Emergency Services • Integrate the fire plan within the Emergency Operations Plan. • Identify whether or not there are adequate services to meet needs in the county. • Address evacuation issues and strengthen evacuation in the county. • Ensure communication between agencies, emergency services, and the public is open and clearly outlined. Goal 4. Conduct hazardous fuels reduction on public and private land • Identify and prioritize hazardous fuels treatment projects on public and private land. • Identify opportunities and incentives that encourage the public to create defensible space and increase the defensibility of their homes. • Prioritize the use of local companies and labor when contracting out fuels reduction work to support the local economy. • Promote the protection of large diameter, fire resistant trees in the county, especially in fuels reduction projects. Goal 5. Address wildfire risk reduction in planning and development • Develop and implement fire plan activities with the future growth and development of the county in mind. • Identify population trends and areas of predicted growth in the county to plan for wildfire. • Identify and enforce existing county and city codes that address wildfire and identify opportunities to strengthen wildfire-related codes. Goal 6. Increase public education and outreach • Understand the public’s perception of risks. • Increase awareness among public agencies, community organizations, and the public about roles of the fire agencies and the ways in which they are pro-active and working together. • Target education on fire protection, safety, mitigation, and other issues to residents, visitors, developers, realtors, media, insurance industry, and other stakeholders. Coordinate education in plan development and implementation and use all forms of media, including the Internet to promote education. • Identify which communication methods are best for diverse groups. Curry County has a diverse population, including low-income and special needs residents, retirees, new residents, and seasonal recreators, among others, that affects social vulnerability. • Integrate existing materials and information in the public outreach process. • Build on the energy and interested created by CFPA during the 2005 – 2006 structural vulnerability assessment by following up with residents. • Coordinate public education efforts with the public information officers for the BLM and other agencies. Curry County Community Wildfire Protection Plan: Community Guide Page 4 Collaboration and Public Outreach The Healthy Forests Restoration Act (HFRA) recognizes the value of collaboration and community involvement in managing wildfire risk. The CWPP process outlined in HFRA directs community’s to work collaboratively to identify key issues relating to structural vulnerability, to identify the community WUI and to come up with effective strategies that are tailored to local needs and capabilities. The CWPT acted as a steering committee through out the planning process, but also relied on public input to inform the plan. The CWPT engaged Curry County residents and community organizations through stakeholder interviews and public meetings. Stakeholder Interviews To identify key concerns and issues related to wildfire in Curry County, Resource Innovations conducted a series of stakeholder interviews early in the planning process. Stakeholders interviewed for the plan include local, state, and federal agencies, local businesses and industry representatives, environmental organizations, hunting organizations, and school districts, among other groups. The interviews solicited stakeholders’ concerns about wildfire in Curry County, ideas and suggestions for the goals and objectives of this plan, and feedback about the planning process. The interviews also served as a first step in raising community awareness about the wildfire plan by informing stakeholders about the planning process. A complete summary of the stakeholder interviews is available in Appendix D. Public Meetings In August 2007, the CWPT hosted three public meetings, one each in the incorporated communities of Brookings, Gold Beach and Port Orford. The meetings provided information about protecting homes and property from wildfire, identifying the areas at risk of wildfire in Curry County, and opportunities for the community to share their concerns about wildfire risk and ideas on how to protect their homes and communities. Each meeting drew a committed group of participants, including elected officials, insurance agents, forest workers and citizens. Members of the CWPT, helped to answer questions and talked about existing programs to identify and reduce wildfire risk, create defensible space, and increase emergency services’ capacity. Through small group discussions, attendees expressed their concerns and suggested ways that the CWPP could address those concerns. The input from the public meetings contributed directly to the development of action strategies in the CWPP. Public Meeting Outcomes • Participants identified priority area to reduce hazardous fuels in the county. Their notes, drawn on maps at each meeting, were incorporated into the risk assessment. • Participants drew attention to concerns about noxious weed infestations, specifically gorse, a highly flammable and invasive weed. As a result the CWPT added data on gorse infestations to the fuels layer used in the risk assessment. The action plan also includes a strategy to educate property owners about the problem of noxious weeds spreading along rights-of-way. • Participants emphasized the importance of education to build awareness and teach people how to reduce their risk to wildfire. They suggested home visits and demonstration projects to engage people in one-to-one discussions. They also recommended working with the schools to reach the next generation and spread the message to parents in the communities. Curry County Community Wildfire Protection Plan: Community Guide Page 5 • Participants supported recommendations to install visible and unambiguous address signage to aid in emergency response. They were also supportive of recommendations to install emergency water storage for residents who lack access to an adequate water supply. CWPP Stakeholders The Curry County CWPP targets strategies to assist households, communities, fire districts, and public agencies. Throughout the plan there are recommendations aimed at helping Curry County reduce its risk to wildfire. Chapter 9 of the full plan synthesizes these recommendations and describes specific actions to reduce wildfire risk and the goals of the plan. The action plan identifies agencies and community organizations that will take a leadership role in implementing the plan. Community groups, fire districts, social service agencies, businesses and individuals can contribute by participating in local efforts to implement strategies in the action plan. Following is a description of how stakeholder groups can play a role in implementing the CWPP. Fire Districts Local fire districts play a key role in implementing the CWPP because they are the most knowledgeable about wildfire risk factors specific to their community. As members of the community they are also connected through social networks providing opportunities for Fire District staff to support education and outreach efforts at a neighborhood level. Fire fighters are also in a natural position to provide organizational leadership and expertise to assist their communities in creating and implementing local action plans. Local, State, and Federal Agencies Agencies responsible for public lands management, emergency response, law enforcement and governance play an important role in supporting the CWPP. By setting priorities, allocating resources and establishing policies these agencies can facilitate the efforts of the communities they serve. Agencies representatives also bring their expertise and experience to communities through education and technical assistance to tap into state and federal grant programs. Finally, these agencies can build trust with the communities they serve by maintaining strong partnerships during implementation of the CWPP, and in emergency response and recovery. Social Service Agencies Social service agencies will be important partners in implementing actions in the plan that support vulnerable populations. Vulnerable populations include those who are at increased risk to wildfire such as the elderly, persons with disabilities and low income households. Specifically, social service staff can assist County Emergency Services in developing a database of vulnerable populations to aid in evacuation planning, provide education to their clients about wildfire risk, and connect their clients to resources to help them reduce their risk. Businesses Local businesses play a part in supporting the CWPP by providing products and services to help their communities prepare for wildfire. Contractors assist with creating defensible space or installing fire resistant building materials. Hardware stores provide the materials for residents to install water storage tanks and clear, visible address signage. Businesses in tourism and Curry County Community Wildfire Protection Plan: Community Guide Page 6 recreation educate visitors about wildfire risk. Real estate agents and insurance providers are also important educators by teaching people how to prepare a home to survive a wildfire. And many businesses will participate in the effort to explore opportunities to use woody biomass to produce compost, mulch, manufactured woods products or biomass generated electricity and heat. Community Groups Formal and informal community groups such as neighborhood associations, church groups and social clubs connect people providing natural opportunities for education and outreach. Community groups can also motivate members to organize events and implement local projects such as a free brush collection day, evacuation drill or tour of a fire resistant home. Individuals Finally, individual residents will play a critical role in the plan’s success. By staying informed, attending community meetings and events designed to disseminate information about wildfire preparedness and asking questions, residents can make sure that they are getting the information they need. Residents can also talk with their neighbors and others in their community to share information, new ideas and spread the word about wildfire preparedness. Homeowners can also protect themselves and their neighbors by taking action to reduce the chances of their home catching fire. Simple and inexpensive steps such as clearing yard debris, cleaning gutters and installing a visible address sign for emergency personnel are just a few things that significantly reduce the chance of losing one’s home to wildfire. Key Stakeholder Contacts – Education and Outreach Resources Coos Forest Protective Association Stan Hodney, shodney@odf.state.or.us (541) 247-6241 Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest Gold Beach Ranger District Cobie Cavanaugh, ccavanaugh@fs.fed.us (541) 247-3686 Bureau of Land Management – Coos Bay District Megan Harper, Megan_harper@or.blm.gov (541) 751-4353 OSU Extension Office – Gold Beach http://extension.oregonstate.edu/curry/index.php Frank Burris (541) 247-6672 South Coast Watershed Councils/Lower Rogue Watershed Councils www.currywatersheds.org Chris John – Riparian Specialist, Chris.john@oacd.org (541) 247-2755 Curry County Weed Board Kean Flemming, kean.fleming@gmail.com (541) 247-2755 Curry County Community Wildfire Protection Plan: Community Guide Page 7 Key Findings Community Wildfire Protection Plans (CWPPs) are intended to help communities identify risk, prioritize projects to reduce wildfire risk, and promote collaboration that leads to long-term implementation of action items. The Curry County CWPP provides a broad set of action items aimed at reducing wildfire risk countywide. However, when it comes to implementing projects, success can only be achieved at a local level. Many of the actions in this plan relate to needs across communities. This chapter is intended to provide a summary of the plan’s key findings, the action plan to address these issues and a useful guide for community members to participate in creating safer communities for Curry County residents. Key Findings: Wildfire Risk in Curry County The Curry County CWPP was developed using data from a variety of sources. One of those sources was a county-wide effort to evaluate homes for risk from wildfire. That information plus input from community stakeholders, public comments and recommendations from the Curry Wildfire Preparation Team (CWPT) was used to identify these key issues, which are addressed in the Curry County CWPP action plan. Defensible Space – Only a third of homes at risk to wildfire have the minimum recommended buffer of 30 ft. Maintaining defensible space is one of the most significant steps a homeowner can take to reduce the risk that their home will be lost in a wildfire. Water Storage – Many homes in Curry County that are at risk to wildfire lack access to an adequate water supply for defensive purposes. Address Signage – A visible, unambiguous address sign helps emergency personnel navigate and locate residences in a wildfire or any other emergency situation, many homes have inadequate address signage. Access – Fire fighters need a safe route to and from a home to be able to defend structures from wildfire. Many homes in Curry County have access ways that are hazardous due to encroaching vegetation, steep grades or long driveways without adequate space to turn around. Evacuation and Transportation – Curry County’s rugged topography limits road access to one or two routes in many communities. Elderly, low-income and other special needs residents may need assistance in an evacuation. Communication and Emergency Response – The communication infrastructure in Curry County is vulnerable due to the lack of redundancy in facilities. Protecting these facilities and developing alternative communication strategies is important for all emergency responses. Invasive Weeds – Gorse is an invasive weed in Curry County that is also highly flammable. Controlling the spread of gorse will help reduce wildfire risk, especially in the northern portion of the county where it is more common. The information in this community guide can serve as a tool for communities to create local action plans that reduce the risk from wildfire. The first section of this guide provides step-by- step guidance on planning and implementing community projects. The second section describes current Curry County wildfire education and outreach activities and provides a list of education resources such as publications, brochures and Internet sites. Curry County Community Wildfire Protection Plan: Community Guide Page 8 CWPP Actions This action plan matrix lists the actions in the Curry County CWPP as a reference for all stakeholders interested in implementing actions within their communities. Lead organizations are identified to manage implementation of the action at a county-level, but a local entity may take on a leadership role within their community. Opportunities for various stakeholder groups are suggested in the action plan matrix below. Chapter 9 of the full plan provides detailed information about each action item. Action Participants Action Strategy Lead Goal 1 – Foster Partnerships and Collaboration 1.1 Businesses, community groups and agencies Establish a Curry County Biomass Coalition to collaborate in developing opportunities for biomass utilization and economic development in conjunction with fuels reduction projects. CWPT and RC&D 1.2 Fire Districts Add information about resources from the Forest Service, BLM and other private fire entities to the CA/OR Mutual Aid Resource Inventory. CA/OR Fire Chief’s Association 1.3 Fire Districts Community Groups Social Services Collaborate with local home insurance providers to participate in developing and disseminating information to property owners about how to reduce risk from wildfire. Work with insurance agencies to develop incentives that reward or encourage homeowners to create defensible space around their homes. Curry County Board of Realtors and NW Insurance Council Goal 2 – Conduct a Comprehensive Risk Assessment 2.1 Fire Districts Update risk assessment layers and review priorities for fuels reduction, as new data is made available. County, FS and BLM 2.2 Fire Districts Maintain and update data on structural vulnerability. County GIS 2.3 Fire Districts Social Services Maintain a database and map of vulnerable populations in the county to inform aid in planning emergency response, targeted education and grant assistance for creating defensible space. County Emergency Services Goal 3 – Support Emergency Services 3.1 Fire Districts Community Groups Create a countywide list for coordinating information distribution about current wildfire conditions. County EM; BLM PIO; CFPA 3.2 Fire Districts Community Groups Social Services Identify and map the principle evacuation routes and safe zones in the county. County Sheriff 3.3 Fire Districts Facilitate the installation of water storage systems by providing standard fixtures to make existing systems accessible to fire responders. Encourage residents with private wells to install water storage systems and provide technical assistance and grant funding. CFPA Fire Chief’s Association 3.4 Fire Districts Community Groups Social Services Evaluate and enhance existing emergency call-down system by conducting periodic tests and strengthening outreach efforts to collect and update contact information. County EM Services, County Health Dept. 3.5 Fire Districts Social Services Provide CERT (Citizen Emergency Response Training) to home care providers. County EM Services Table 1 Action plan matrix. Curry County Community Wildfire Protection Plan: Community Guide Page 9 Action Participants Action Strategy Lead Goal 4 - Conduct Hazardous Fuels Reduction on Public and Private Land 4.1 All Identify, secure resources for, and implement fuels reduction projects on public and private land. FS, BLM, CWPT partners 4.2 Contractors, agencies, community groups Explore opportunities to utilize stewardship contracting to accomplish fuels reduction work on public lands and provide local economic development opportunities. USFS, BLM 4.3 Fire Districts Community Groups Social Services Institute free brush collection days. CFPA, Curry Transfer & Recycling 4.4 Community groups Obtain funding to control gorse and other noxious weeds through partnerships with the Curry County Weed Board and South Coast Watershed Councils. Curry County Weed Board 4.5 Fire Districts Community Groups Social Services Provide education and assistance for vulnerable populations to create defensible space around homes in high-risk areas. CFPA 4.6 Fire Districts Community Groups Social Services Create and maintain a list of local contractors who do fuels reduction work. Make this list available to the public. South Coast Watershed Councils 4.7 Community Groups Develop a program to educate local contractors and landscapers about home wildfire preparation. Develop a list of trained contractors and make available to the public. OSU Extension Goal 5 - Address Wildfire Risk Reduction in Planning and Development 5.1 Fire Districts Community Groups Educate property owners about the hazard created by noxious weed infestation along right of ways. Curry County Weed Board 5.2 Fire Districts Community Groups Implement Senate Bill 360 using information from the CWPP risk assessment and in outreach strategy in coordination with the State Forestry Office. ODF 5.3 Local government Update the Curry County fire code to reflect state standards established by the Office of the State Fire Marshal. Curry Fire Chief’s Association; OSFM Goal 6 - Increase Public Education and Outreach 6.1 Fire Districts Community Groups Social Services Develop a program that offers tours of homes that have well maintained defensible space, signage, access and fire resistant structures. CFPA 6.2 Fire Districts Community Groups Partner with schools to share information about wildfire risks and steps to effective preparation. CFPA and RFPDs 6.3 Fire Districts Community Groups Social Services Continue to offer free home evaluations to collect data on structural vulnerability and provide a one-on-one education about steps residents can take to reduce vulnerability. CFPA 6.4 Fire Districts Community Groups Social Services Create a program to distribute information to resident about how to install and maintain adequate address signage. County Planning and RFPD 6.5 Fire Districts Community Groups Social Services Conduct targeted outreach and technical assistance to residents with wood shake roofs to identify and overcome barriers to upgrading those roofs to more fire-resistant materials. CFPA 6.6 Fire Districts Community Groups Work with real estate agencies to educate realtors about structural vulnerability and wildfire risk. Curry County Board of Realtors 6.7 Fire Districts Community Groups Utilize local media to publicize successful implementation of the Fire Plan as opportunities arise. CFPA, BLM, County Curry County Community Wildfire Protection Plan: Community Guide Page 10 Create a Local Action Plan Not all communities in Curry County are faced with the same issues and challenges. For example, communities to the north may see gorse infestation as a high priority while those in the south may be more concerned with improving access for fire fighters. The process of creating a local action plan will help each community identify key issues specific to that community. This five-step process will also help communities identify resources from within the community and opportunities to get assistance from local, state and federal agencies. 1. Convene Decisions Makers: Bring together a core group of people who can make decisions on behalf of the community. These individuals may be fire officials, leaders in the community, or simply someone willing to dedicate time and energy to creating a safer community. 2. Involve Local, State and Federal Officials: Identify those officials with jurisdictional authority in your community. These people may be able to provide resources, technical assistance and valuable information to help your community. 3. Engage Interested Parties: Look within your community, district or neighborhood to find out who can contribute to your efforts and who will benefit from your efforts. Create a list; a spreadsheet comes in handy to keep track of phone numbers and email addresses. 4. Map Your Community: Use maps in the Curry County CWPP to help your team establish your community boundaries and identify important issues facing your community. 5. Establish Community Priorities and Projects: Using your community map as a guide, identify priority issues that your community would like to address. Then review the Action Plan, to see which actions in the Curry CWPP align with the needs of your community. List those actions that your team would like to act upon at a local level. If necessary, develop your own actions specific to your community. The next section offers step-by-step instructions for some specific community actions. Tips to Energize Your Community Neal Schaeffer, a resident of Glorieta Estates, New Mexico, offers these tips for building community support for wildfire preparedness projects. • Have experts who make engaging presentations about relevant topics; • Create opportunities through which neighbors can share their values and concerns about the particular aspects of wildfire mitigation that need to be addressed; • Offer activities, such as Chipper Days and providing the resources for a successful activity; • Acknowledge that progress may take time and setting realistic expectations for progress leads to successes large and small. Patience and acceptance can yield very productive results; • Realize that the group rules the day and there is no need to impose one person’s agenda on the entire group; • Maintain communication while bearing in mind that most folks have limited patience for dreary meetings; and, • The best events are those in which people sweat together. Excerpt from Firewise Communities – The How-To Newsletter. Summer 2006. (http://www.firewise.org/usa/files/how_to_guide_Summer_2006.pdf) Curry County Community Wildfire Protection Plan: Community Guide Page 11 Implement Local Wildfire Preparedness Projects Taking on a community project may seem daunting at first, but breaking it down into concrete steps makes the effort more manageable. Coordinate a Neighborhood Fuels Reduction Project Fuels reduction projects can include creating defensible spaces around homes, brushing back vegetation from evacuation routes and driveways, or landscape treatments that reduce fuel loads beyond the immediate vicinity of structures and roads. Each step listed below is described in detail in “A Guide to Coordination a Neighborhood Fuels Reduction Project." The document is available for download at: http://ri.uoregon.edu/publicationspress/Fuel_Reduction_ Guide.pdf 1. Initiate the project. 2. Engage volunteers and secure funding. 3. Select project areas and define project objectives. 4. Determine applicable environmental rules. 5. Conduct public outreach. 6. Work with contractors. 7. Implement on the ground work. 8. Conduct project reporting and monitoring. 9. Maintain treatments. 10. Celebrate and publicize accomplishments. Communities Taking Action In Wilderness Ranch, ID residents have organized an annual “Firewise Week” each autumn. It includes chimney cleaning and the designation of a specific site for the dropping off of yard waste, with a community bonfire and potluck dinner rounding out the week. “Our fire chief credits Firewise as one of the main reasons we haven’t had a catastrophic wildfire in our community,” notes Wilderness Ranch resident and community organizer, Carrie Wiss. She adds that this year, the community will be initiating a project to thin and limb up trees, and to remove brush along stretches of private property that are adjacent to roads. photo: Firewise.org Excerpt from Firewise Communities – The How-To Newsletter. Summer 2007. http://www.firewise.org/usa/files/how_to_guide_summer _07.pdf Curry County Community Wildfire Protection Plan: Community Guide Page 12 Become a Firewise Recognized Community The Firewise Communities/USA program provides technical assistance to small communities to increase wildfire preparedness. The program is best suited to communities where neighbors are willing and able to work together on wildfire mitigation projects. For more details visit: http://www.firewise.org, or contact the Oregon Firewise Program Representative: Ms. Ann Walker, Oregon Department of Forestry, at (503) 945-7346, or by email to AWalker@odf.state.or.us 1. Contact the State Firewise Representative. 2. Schedule a site visit to the community. 3. A community assessment is performed, either by the state liaison or his/her designee. 4. Establish a local Firewise board or committee. Conduct a community assessment. 5. Adopt a community action plan. Plan and implement a community project, the first ‘Firewise Day'. 6. Submit a Firewise Communities/USA application to the Firewise representative. 7. Maintain status by continuing at least one annual ‘Firewise Day’. Create a Neighborhood Evacuation Plan Evacuating residents can be one of the most dangerous times during a wildfire. Prior planning can reduce unnecessary risks. The steps listed below are adapted from the Upper Deschutes Natural Resources Coalition Emergency Response Plan Guidelines .1 1. Develop a database of information on residents in the community. 2. Create maps with identified residences and potential safe zones. 3. Identify evacuation routes. 4. Conduct a neighborhood scale drill. 1 http://www.udrnrc.org/neighborhood%20info/emergency%20response/index.htm Communities Taking Action In Lummi Island, WA, residents are reminded about cleaning up debris with the placement of signs that read “This lot has been ‘Firewised’.” These signs get moved around, notes Frankie Small, “so that community members can see that you do not have to clear cut to be Firewise.” The community also has work parties, with chips from chipping provided for homeowners to use on their property. Ms. Small, also sends out a quarterly newsletter with helpful suggestions and reminders. Her favorite slogan is “Be Safe, Be Firewise.” It is helpful to repeat and remind, she says. photo: Firewise.org;.Excerpt from Firewise Communities – The How-To Newsletter. Summer 2007. http://www.firewise.org/usa/files/how_to_guide_summer _07.pdf Evacuation Planning and Notification The City of Ashland produced a wildfire evacuation map that is available to residents along with a Wildfire Evacuation Guide. During a wildfire, information about the fire and evacuation instructions are available through a telephone hotline, AM radio broadcast and community phone tree. The city’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is a group of trained volunteers that operate the phone tree system. The system has been activated twice, once in December 2005 and again in December 2006. CERT has produced a phone tree activation guide based on those experiences: http://www.ashland.or.us/Files/Phone%20Tree%20Activ ation%20Guide.pdf Curry County Community Wildfire Protection Plan: Community Guide Page 13 Planning a Free Brush Collection or Community Clean-Up Day Removing debris from neighborhood fuels reduction work or other flammables from the community can be a major challenge to maintaining good defensible space. For more details on these steps visit: www.firefree.org 1. Develop a partnership with agency to receive debris or determine a location for debris drop off and pick up. 2. Set a date for the event. 3. Conduct education and outreach to publicize the date. 4. Survey participants to gather information to evaluate and improve next year’s collection. 5. Work with local media to report on the event’s success. Obtain Grant Funding There are a many grants available for funding wildfire mitigation projects. Many grant programs require that the applicant be an agency, organization or non-profit. But communities can partner with local, state and federal partners on grant applications (see Appendix C for a listing of grant opportunities). 1. Create a project description and budget. 2. Identify available resources (in-kind labor, volunteers, expertise, monetary). 3. Identify grant source and application timeline. 4. Write and submit grant. 5. Document project accomplishments. 6. Submit grant report. Is it worthwhile for communities to seek nonprofit status? “It really depends on the community’s goals and whether the residents can get help from the local town or county government or other partners. While this status will allow a community to access resources independently of partners, it takes a serious, ongoing time commitment (as well as paperwork and, yes, money) to obtain tax- exempt nonprofit status. You can link to the IRS website that explains the details from our Grants and Resources page at www.firewise.org/usa.” Are there alternatives to grants for communities seeking to accomplish projects? “Many excellent projects and programs have occurred in neighborhoods through partnership and collaboration. It’s a good idea for communities to figure out who their neighbors are and see if they can get them to help out. If your “neighbor” is a state, national forest, park or a Bureau of Land Manage- ment area, for example, these entities are interested in reducing wildfire risk and managing their natural resources. Other communities have partnered with their local water districts (for help with equipment and disposing of green waste), their school districts (for Firewise education and outreach) and local contractors (for demonstration areas). Volunteer labor and in-kind services go a long way in small communities.” Excerpt from an interview with Michele Steinberg a Firewise Communities Support Manager, published in Firewise Communities – The How-To Newsletter. Fall 2006 Curry County Community Wildfire Protection Plan: Community Guide Page 14 Conduct Outreach with your Community Working effectively with groups and individuals to build productive partnerships can be challenging, but is equally rewarding. Strategies to coordinate education and outreach include the following: • One-to-one Communication with local residents. • Outreach to Stakeholders with a stake in protecting their community from wildfire. • Form Coalitions/Collaborations/Networks between groups that can leverage limited resources. • Organize a Community Event to engage the public and kick-start local action. • Coordinate a media event and draft a press release to raise awareness within the community. • Focus on a collaborative partnership with diverse groups throughout the community to identify common goals, reduce conflict and achieve success in reducing wildfire risk. Disposing of Yard Debris Chipping One of the several alternatives to burning is wood chipping tree limbs and branches. Wood chips make a great landscape mulch material. Benefits of using wood chips for mulch inc lude conserving soil moisture, reducing weeds, and cooling the soil. In addition, wood chips make good yard pathways. An Oregon taxpayer that purchases a wood chipper for use in Oregon may apply for the tax credit within one year from the date of delivery. An approved tax credit may be used to reduce the amount of state taxes owed by 35% of the cost of the wood chipper and its shipping charges. For more details visit: http://www.deq.state.or.us/aq/burning/chippertc.htm Composting Using yard debris as compost enriches the soil with nutrients and helps soil retain moisture. For tips on how to compost contact the Curry County Extension Office in Gold Beach (541) 247-6672 or 1-800-356-3986. Collection Sites Curry Transfer and Recycling (541) 469-2425 accepts yard debris at three sites in Curry County. Charges apply except for free drop off days, one each in the spring and fall at the Port Orford and Brooking sites only. Call for rates and hours of operation. Port Orford: 42750 Arizona St. off of Paradise Point Gold Beach: 32450 Edson Creek Road Brookings: Ridge Creek on Wilderness Road Curry County Community Wildfire Protection Plan: Community Guide Page 15 Burning Regulations in Curry County Burn permit requirements vary depending on where you live and the time of year. To obtain up- to-date info on requirements in your area, call the appropriate agency from the list below. Consider using an alternative to burning to reduce air pollution and minimize fire risk. Regardless of where you live the following regulations apply: Fire Suppression Equipment: The permit holder must have fire suppression equipment ready for use as required by the burn permit. Responsible Adult: A burning permit does not relieve the permittee from responsibility for the payment of costs for suppression or for damages if the fire escapes control. A capable, responsible adult must be present at all times until the fire is completely out. Clear Debris: All flammable material adjacent to the site must be cleared to mineral soil or other fire-proof surface as specified by the permit issuing officer. Prohibited Items: Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) regulations prohibit open burning of the following materials at any time, anywhere in Oregon. Additional restrictions may apply in your area. • Rubber products, plastic or wire insulation • Automobile parts and tires • Wet garbage inc luding waste from food preparation • Petroleum and petroleum treated products • Asphalt or industrial waste • Animal remains • Any material that creates dense smoke or noxious odors Within city limits these additional regulations apply: • Burn permits are required all year round. • Burning is restricted to specific times of day as specified in the permit. • Burn barrels are not permitted within Brookings city limits. • Only yard debris can be burned, no construction debris or burning to clear land. To request an inspection and obtain a permit contact: Port Orford Police Department (541) 332-9013 Gold Beach Fire Department (541) 247-6204 Brookings Fire Department (541) 469-1140 Harbor Fire District (visit the office in person Mon.-Fri. between 9:30-11:00 AM) Outside of city limits these additional regulations apply:  All outdoor burning requires a permit.  All slash and some land clearing burning requires a permit and must conform to the Oregon Smoke Management Plan.  All permit areas must be inspected by the Forest Officer.  Open burning permits are only issued for the amount of time required to complete the burn.  An inc inerator may be approved for annual use if it meets specific requirements.  Burning may be restricted to specific times during the day as specified in the permit. To request an inspection and obtain a permit contact the nearest CFPA Office: Port Orford (541) 347-3400 Gold Beach (541) 247-6241 Brookings (541) 469-2302 Curry County Community Wildfire Protection Plan: Community Guide Page 16 Education and Outreach Community members play a critical role in mitigating wildfire risk. At an individual level, choices about landscaping and yard maintenance to create defensible space have a direct impact on structural vulnerability. At a neighborhood and community level, residents can work together to assist in emergency communication, evacuation planning, and neighborhood cleanup-up projects. Residents can also work collectively by voicing support for local, state and federal efforts to mitigate wildfire risk. This chapter describes education and outreach objectives, the strategies to reach those objectives and provides a list of current programs and resources to support these efforts. Education and Outreach Objectives In 2005 and 2006, the Coos Forest Protective Association (CFPA) went door-to-door evaluating the structural vulnerability of homes throughout the county. With memories of the Biscuit Fire in the not too distant past, many residents welcomed the visits and expressed interest in how they could better prepare for a wildfire. The strategies in this plan will build on that interest and continue a public dialogue about wildfire and how residents, organizations and agencies can work together to reduce risk and increase preparedness. The specific strategies listed below support these three themes: Increase Awareness The CWPP will increase awareness among individuals, organizations, and agencies about wildfire risk and lead to pro-active steps people can take to reduce risk and increase preparedness. Public agencies, community organizations, and the general public will also understand how to work together to achieve community goals around wildfire preparedness. Provide Targeted Education and Outreach The CWPP will provide targeted education on fire protection, safety, mitigation, and other issues to residents, visitors, developers, realtors, media, insurance industry, and other stakeholders. Everyone has a role in preparing for wildfire, but an effective education campaign must meet the diverse needs of the community and utilize the outreach methods and tools that are best suited for each audience. Integrate Existing Education Materials The CWPP will coordinate with local public agencies to disseminate existing education materials, many of which are available free or at a minimal cost. Creating Defensible Space Good defensible space doesn’t have to include a clear-cut. There are many inexpensive ways to create this critical buffer that are also preserve the wilderness character that draws people to Curry Counties forested communities. photo: Firewise.org Curry County Community Wildfire Protection Plan: Community Guide Page 17 Education and Outreach Action Strategies The Curry Wildfire Preparation Team (CWPT) used input from the public outreach process, stakeholder interviews and countywide structural vulnerability assessment to develop the strategies listed below. These strategies reflect community input that called for an emphasis on one-to-one communication, promotion of incentives rather than regulation and a belief that residents will do the right thing with a little assistance and the right information. Chapter 9 provides a detailed description and implementation plan for each of these action items. Current Education and Outreach Efforts in Curry County The strategies listed above enhance and expand existing education and outreach efforts. In Curry County, the CFPA has held a lead role in coordinating and delivering wildfire education information in partnership with local fire protection districts, the U.S. Forest Service, and the BLM.2 This section offers a brief summary of education and outreach activities in the county. CFPA Website The CFPA website: http://www.coosfpa.net houses information on burn permits, fire season restrictions, and links to information about how to create defensible space. During fire season months there is also a link to their electronic newsletter, “The Hot Sheet”, which includes tips on fire safety and relevant fire news. Public Presentations In 2006 the CFPA worked with staff from U.S. Forest Service, BLM and local Fire Districts personnel to make approximately 3,000 prevention contacts through outreach efforts at schools, parks and youth organizations. Agency representatives also attend festivals, home shows, fairs and parades to distribute information and raise public awareness about the risk of wildfire.3 Signage and Press Release Program The CFPA information officer coordinates with the U.S. Forest Service and other land management agencies to install information signs when conditions warrant restrictions or closures in certain areas. As well, the CFPA offices issue targeted press releases to bring pertinent issues to public attention throughout the year. 2 For additional info contact: CFPA Information officer, Tom Fields 672-6507 or Gold Beach liaison, Stan Hodney: (541) 247-6241. 3 Coos Forest Protective Association. Annual Report. 2006. http://www.coosfpa.net/2006%20CFPA.pdf. (July 16, 2007). Safe Driveways and Evacuation Routes A well maintained roadway free of encroaching vegetation such as the highly flammable invasive weed, gorse, greatly improves safety for evacuating residents and fire fighters battling a wildfire. photo: Firewise.org Curry County Community Wildfire Protection Plan: Community Guide Page 18 Home Visits During the summer months of 2005 and 2006, CFPA staff visited homes throughout the county to collect data for a structural vulnerability study funded by the National Fire Plan Community Assistance grant program. These visits provided an opportunity for CFPA staff to talk directly with residents about the things that make a home vulnerable to fire and how residents could take steps to reduce their risk. CFPA staff provided informational handouts, made suggestions for reducing structural vulnerability and answered residents’ questions. These visits were an educational opportunity for residents, but also for the CFPA staff. Through their conversations CFPA staff gained insights into residents’ perception of risk and their receptiveness to different ways to mitigate risk. The CFPA will continue to offer home visits to disseminate information, build trust with the community and to collect data on structural vulnerability for ongoing monitoring purposes. OSU Extension The OSU Extension office in Gold Beach is not currently offering education and outreach programs related to wildfire. However, the office does have access to programmatic resources and has been involved with wildfire education in the past. Most recently, following the Biscuit Fire, the extension office coordinated a public forum that brought together speakers to present information on wildfire preparedness. Other extension offices in central Oregon offer programs that include evening classes and a field trip to visit fire sites or examples of homes that are well prepared for wildfire. If there was sufficient interest in the community, the Gold Beach extension office could begin to offer these types of programs.4 The extension office also has a number of publications including “Backyard Woodlands: A Landowners Resource Notebook”. This book includes a chapter on managing wildfire risk in addition to information about plant identification, plant ecology and how to manage wildlife habitat. Other Education and Outreach Opportunities Implementation of the education strategies in this plan will involve collaborative partnerships with other organizations in Curry County. The South Coast Watershed Councils, Lower Rogue Watershed Councils, and Curry County Weed Board are active in outreach and education efforts related to natural resource management issues. Representatives of these organizations have expressed interest in supporting the educational objectives of this CWPP. 4 Burris, Frank Curry County-OSU Extension Services. 541-247-6672 Frank.Burris@oregonstate.edu Fuels Reduction Projects Thinning the buildup of forest fuels after decades of fire suppression reduces the risk of a catastrophic canopy fire. Educating communities about the benefits of these projects is the first step to working with residents to design thinning projects that protect the community, the environment, and maintain the aesthetics of Curry County’s forested lands. photo: Firewise.org Curry County Community Wildfire Protection Plan: Community Guide Page 19 Educational Resources There area a number of resources available to residents, organizations and agencies that are interested in wildfire education. Many of these publications are inexpensive or free, and they include information on a wide array of topics such as fire resistant building materials, landscaping for defensible space and how to prepare for an evacuation. Fuels Reduction Publications These resources are useful for residents and land managers interested in reducing forest fuels and restoring healthy forests. The Rural Homeowner’s Guide The South Coast Watershed Councils in partnership with the Curry County Soil and Water Conservation District produced this resource guide for rural landowners. The guide includes information about land management principles for forest health as well as contact information for contractors who are qualified to do fuels reduction work in Curry County. To obtain a copy visit the South Coast Watershed Councils Office at 98141 4th Street Gold Beach, OR 97444, or call (541) 247-2755. 2005 Forest Landowner Resource Guide The Southwest Oregon Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) Council and OSU Extension Service published this guide with support from a National Fire Plan grant. The guide describes steps to reducing fuels and improving forest health through selective thinning. It includes instructions for do-it-yourself projects as well as advice on finding and choosing a contractor. The guide emphasizes utilization of woody biomass generated as a by-product of fuels reduction or forest restoration work. For more information contact the RC&D Council at (541) 476-5906. The guide can be viewed on-line at: http://www.pacrimrcd.org/page.asp?navid=293 Preserving the Natural Beauty of the Southern Oregon Coast: Identifying and Controlling Invasive Weeds in Curry County. This guide provides information on noxious weed identification and control, and planting alternatives for seven of the Curry County’s most common invasive weeds: (Knotweed, Ivy, Broom, Gorse, Himalayan Blackberry, Pampas Grass, and Butterfly Bush). To obtain a copy, contact the Curry County Weed Board at (541) 247-2755. Homeowner’s Guides Living with Fire This publication includes a step-by-step guide to creating defensible space, suggestions about thinning vegetation, and a description of fire's role in an ecosystem. Living with Fire is easy to understand with photos and diagrams. The original publication was produced by the Pacific Northwest Wildfire Coordinating Group and is available on-line at: http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/publications/documents/livingwithfire.pdf Is Your Home Protected from Wildfire Disaster? A Homeowner’s Guide to Wildfire Retrofit. The Institute for Business and Home Safety (IHBS) produced this free booklet, which is distributed through Firewise.org. The 25-page guide covers information about defensible space, fire resistant materials and how to assist firefighters in defending your home. It also includes a checklist of steps for before, during and after a wildfire. http://www.firewise.org/resources/files/wildfr2.pdf Curry County Community Wildfire Protection Plan: Community Guide Page 20 Oregon Forestland-Urban Interface Fire Protection Act Property Evaluation & Self- Certification Guide. The Oregon Forestland-Urban Interface Fire Protection Act (Senate Bill 360) was passed by the Oregon legislature in 1997, but has not yet been implemented in Curry County. The intent of the legislation is to decrease structural vulnerability by directing property owners in at-risk areas to take voluntary action to make their homes less vulnerable to wildfire. The Oregon Department of Forestry produced a detailed guide for homeowners about the regulations and fire safety standards. The publication is available on-line at: http://egov.oregon.gov/ODF/FIRE/SB360/sb360_forms.shtml The Wood Shake and Shingle Roof Hazard. This short paper describes how wildfires can ignite homes and the importance of installing a fire resistant roof. A brief summary of the available research on home losses attributed to wood roofs is included. The report is available to download from: http://www.livingwithfire.info/pdf/WEB- Wood_Shake_and_Shingle_Roof_Hazard.pdf Fire Resistant Plants for Home Landscapes. Selecting plants that may reduce your risk from wildfire. This publication from the Pacific Northwest Extension includes photos and descriptions of plants that are suitable for fire resistant landscaping. It is available online at: http://extension.oregonstate.edu/catalog/html/pnw/pnw590/pnw590.pdf Fire-Resistant Plants for Oregon Home Landscapes. Stephen Fitzgerald and Amy Jo Waldo, OSU Extension Service. This brochure describes the concepts of using landscaping to reduce fire risk and offers suggestions for fire resistant annuals, perennials and turf that are suited for different regions throughout Oregon. The publication is available online at: http://www.firefree.org/downloads/FireResPlants.pdf Programs The following web sites provide links to useful information as well as ideas and examples of how other communities have implemented education programs. Firewise The National Wildland Urban Interface Fire Program hosts the Firewise website. The site provides access to a variety of resources some free and others available for a fee. The publications and products catalog includes brochures, books, fliers, instructional videos and more. There are also links to downloadable information, and to web resources on all aspects of wildfire safety. The site also describes Firewise Communities/USA a program that assists small communities to implement projects to create defensible space and increase wildfire preparedness. www.firewise.org Firefree The Firefree Program was developed through a collaborative partnership of firefighters, businesses and Safeco Insurance in Bend, OR. The program provides education and outreach to local residents to reduce wildfire risk by creating defensible space. www.firefree.org Living With Fire The Living With Fire Program began in 1997 to provide education materials for communities in Nevada. The program website includes information appropriate to different regions and addresses steps to take before, during and after a wildfire. www.livingwithfire.info. Curry County Community Wildfire Protection Plan: Community Guide Page 21 Priority Fuels Reduction Projects The CWPT incorporated information gathered and synthesized during the planning process and countywide risk assessment to identify potential sites for fuels reduction work. The CWPT used three criteria in establishing the highest priority sites. Sites that are near critical communication infrastructure, such as those that are essential for 911 service, were assigned the highest priority. Next, the CWPT prioritized areas where gorse infestation increases wildfire risk. Third, the CWPT prioritized sites adjacent to communities that have high structural vulnerability ratings. Table 2 is a list of priority sites by each zone in the county, plus a short description of the site. Chapter 6 of the full CWPP describes the countywide risk assessment and provides a more detailed description of the prioritization process, list of grant opportunities for each project, and a county map illustrating project locations. Project Name Description Jurisdiction* NORTH Edson Butte Non-911 site in BLM land, Very high risk. County Unprotected Stone Butte Non-911 site on private land, Moderate risk. County Unprotected Blanco/Elk River 911 com site, low risk due to State Parks mowing, Large intense gorse area, extends into FS grounds so need to consider their management plan. Vulnerable homes along Elk River. Sixes, Port Orford, none Port Orford Airport Moderate sized intense gorse area; low community risk. Sixes Rocky Point Small limited distribution gorse area; high community risk Port Orford Port Orford Water Supply Moderate sized limited distribution gorse area; high community risk due to vulnerable structures, limited access, and municipal water supply Port Orford Knapp Road Moderate sized limited distribution gorse area; high community risk due to N winds endangering structures to the south Port Orford Langlois Mountain Road Moderate sized limited distribution gorse area, moderate-high priority due to potential to spread County Unprotected Floras Lake/Sea Wind Farms High vulnerability of homes near Floras Lake. Adjacent to a large limited distribution gorse area; moderate community risk; low priority due to fuels being broken by cranberry bogs Sixes Bennett Butte Small limited distribution gorse area, however high risk due to proximity to Coos County 911 site County Unprotected Cedar Terrace High community risk due to vulnerable structures, limited access, and proximity to municipal water supply Port Orford Sixes River Vulnerable structures adjacent to BLM land that is high risk Sixes CENTRAL Grizzly Mountain 911 site on BLM lands. Very high priority due to lack of redundancy (all other sites link to Grizzly) and risk rating. Also an area of scattered vulnerable homes County Unprotected Agnes/Oak Flat 911 site on FS lands. Adjacent to vulnerable structures in Agness/Oak Flat Agness-Illahe Iron Mountain Non-911 site on USFS land County Unprotected Eighty Acre Rd Small limited distribution gorse area, however with a very high risk rating adjacent to vulnerable structures with limited access County Unprotected Table 2. Priority sites for fuels reduction work in Curry County by zone. Curry County Community Wildfire Protection Plan: Community Guide Page 22 Project Name Description Jurisdiction* Cedar Valley/ Ferguson Ranch/ Brushy Bald Mtn Cedar Valley is a high priority area of vulnerable structures with BLM ownership on a ridgeline to the east. Ferguson Ranch to the west is a moderate sized limited distribution gorse area. Brushy Bald Mountain is a ridgeline far east that possibly could be a location of a strategic fuel reduction zone Cedar Valley, County Unprotected Jerry's Flat Rd Small limited distribution gorse area; critical area to control. GB/Wedderburn Agness Rd Corridor Scenic corridor and important evacuation route with scattered vulnerable structures County Unprotected Agness/Walters Cr Scenic corridor and important evacuation route with scattered vulnerable structures Agness-Illahe Homestead Rd Scattered vulnerable homes, limited access, mostly north slope County Unprotected Hunter Creek Concentrations of vulnerable structures County Unprotected SOUTH Red Mound Non-911 site on private land immediately adjacent to BLM, high risk rating. High community risk due to NE winds endangering structures; concentration of homes with limited access Cape Ferrelo, Brookings Bosley Butte 911 site on BLM land adjacent to private, high risk rating, outside WUI boundary, but a high priority to protect as community infrastructure Unprotected Black Mound 911 site on BLM land immediately adjacent to private, moderate risk rating. High community risk due to NE winds endangering structures; concentration of homes with limited access. Cape Ferrelo, Brookings, County Unprotected Garner Ridge/ Palmer Butte Non-911 site on BLM land adjacent to concentration of vulnerable structures. Upper Chetco Harris Beach Moderate sized limited distribution gorse area with high risk rating and close proximity to vulnerable homes and state park Brookings Rainbow Rock Moderate sized limited distribution gorse area with moderate risk rating and close proximity to condominiums. County Unprotected Mt. View Heavy concentration of vulnerable structures, some limited access, south aspect and exposure to winds Bookings Harbor Hills Heavy concentration of vulnerable structures, limited access, south aspect and exposure to winds Harbor Wilderness Retreat Concentration of vulnerable structures. Adjacent FS lands have candidate Coastal Healthy Forest stands. County Unprotected Cate Rd Scattered vulnerable structures, Adjacent USFS lands with candidate Coastal Healthy Forest stands to the north could have fuels treatment opportunities to help protect structures from prevailing winds. County Unprotected Carpenterville Rd Scattered vulnerable structures along the north end of Carpenterville Rd County Unprotected South Bank Chetco/Mt. Emily Scattered vulnerable structures. Adjacent USFS lands with candidate Coastal Healthy Forest to the north mean potential fuels treatment to help protect structures from prevailing winds. Upper Chetco, County Unprotected Winchuck River Concentration of vulnerable structures. Adjacent USFS lands have candidate Coastal Healthy Forest stands to the north and east that could have fuels treatment opportunities to help protect structures from prevailing winds. Winchuck *County Unprotected refers to sites outside of a Fire Protection District Curry County CWPP Partners Curry Wildfire Preparation Team Members • Michael Brace, Curry County Emergency Services • Earl Burke, Retired Bureau of Land Management • Cobie Cavanaugh, Rogue River - Siskiyou National Forest • John Flannigan, Coos Forest Protective Association • Bruce Floyd, Rogue River - Siskiyou National Forest • Toni Fisher, Curry County GIS • Megan Harper, Bureau of Land Management, Coos Bay District • Dana Hicks, South Coast Watershed Councils/Lower Rogue Watershed Councils • Chris John, South Coast Watershed Councils • Mike Murphy, City of Port Orford/Langlois Fire Department • Joanne Ruoff, Coos Forest Protective Association • Chief Bill Sharp, Brookings Fire Department/Curry County Fire Chief Community and Agency Partners • Ann Walker, Oregon Department of Forestry, National Fire Plan Coordinator • Jeff Bonotto, Coos Forest Protective Association • Patty Clark, City of Port Orford • Jodi Ferrin, Curry County • Kean Flemming, Curry County Weed Board • Paul Flanagan, Bureau of Land Management, Coos Bay District • Roy Gilkey, Coos Forest Protective Association • Stan Hodney, Coos Forest Protective Association • Dianne Morris, City of Brookings • Amy Wilson, Southwest Resource Conservation and Development Council Curry County Fire Agencies • Agness Illahe VFD • Brookings RFPD • City of Brookings Fire • Cape Ferrelo RFPD • Cedar Valley RFPD • Gold Beach Wedderburn RFPD • City of Gold Beach Fire • Harbor RFPD • Langlois RFPD • Ophir RFPD • Pistol River RFPD • Port Orford RFPD • Sixes RFPD • Upper Chetco RFPD • Winchuck RFPD CWPP Prepared by: • Kathy Lynn and Ryan Ojerio, Resource Innovations, Institute for a Sustainable Environment, University of Oregon, http://ri.uoregon.edu/ • Jim Wolf, Wildfire Planning and Analysis How to find the complete Curry County CWPP: • Visit your city and county government offices, fire districts, libraries, and watershed council offices for a hard copy. • View an electronic version at: http://www.co.curry.or.us/ or http://ri.uoregon.edu/programs/CCE/curry.html.