Wildfire-Ready Communities: Strategies for Resilience and Preparedness

Upcoming Webinar- May 7, 2025 @ Noon MT

This webinar delves into wildfire mitigation, pre-planning, and best practices for incorporating wildfire risk into urban forest management plans. Experts from forestry, fire management, and community engagement will share proactive strategies, including fire-resistant landscaping, community education, and collaborative wildfire mitigation projects across jurisdictions.

Attendees will gain valuable insights into certification programs, risk assessment techniques, and practical wildfire prevention solutions. Whether you're a forestry professional, urban planner, or community leader, this session offers actionable strategies to strengthen wildfire resilience in urban forests and surrounding communities.

Speakers & Topics

Matt Urmson, PlanIT Geo
Matt Urmson specializes in integrating wildfire risk into urban forest management plans. He will discuss certification programs and best practices for incorporating fire mitigation strategies into urban forestry planning. His presentation will highlight tools and approaches professionals can use to assess and reduce wildfire risk in urban environments.

Kamie Long, Colorado State Forest Service
Kamie Long focuses on community engagement and education in wildfire resilience. She will cover fire-resistant landscaping, homeowner education, and how the Colorado State Forest Service’s Urban and Community Forestry team is helping communities address wildfire risks. Kamie will also discuss practical steps communities and homeowners can take to implement fire-resistant landscaping techniques outlined in CSFS educational resources.

Cory Ashby, Wildfire Program Administrator – Fuels Management, Colorado Springs Fire Department
Cory Ashby will present on behalf of the Colorado Springs Fire Department’s Wildfire Mitigation section. He will discuss partnerships, planning, and execution of wildfire mitigation efforts, including cross-boundary treatments. He will showcase completed wildfire mitigation projects utilizing methods such as tethered logging, mastication, tracked chippers, and handwork, providing valuable insights into effective fuels management strategies.