BACKGROUND
The occurrence and severity of wildland fires in the amazon region are on the rise. Every year a new record is reached in certain South American countries. This project works to strengthen international collaboration in the region, improve prevention efforts, and empower authorities to improve fire management strategies.
The Fire project focuses on improving fire prevention and response through strategic planning, coordination, and training across the region, as well as enhancing interagency and international collaboration. The project builds upon 20 years of joint work by the United States Forest Service (USFS) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to address crucial natural resource management issues in South America.
HOW DOES THE ACTIVITY WORK?
This project provides technical expertise in planning, preventing, and fighting wildfires to protect people and forest resources. The project supports government institutions and local partners to collaboratively develop national fire management policies. It also supports the development of standard firefighting courses and qualifications systems (developed by U.S. National Wildfire Coordinating Group) to promote the sharing of professionals across borders.
In addition, Fire works with partner institutions to modernize wildland fire forecasting systems to provide decision-makers with timely information to make better on-the-ground operational decisions and plan for significant fire potential. Finally, communications and outreach activities raise fire prevention awareness to address the root causes.
