FORESTRY AND FIRE MANAGEMENT IN THE WEST: A DYNAMIC HOMELAND SECURITY ENEMY

Abstract

This thesis answers two questions: How has the difference between western states’ forestry and fire management practices affected wildland fire response and how can forestry and fire management stakeholders address wildfire scale and frequency in the western United States? Through a comparative analysis approach, the research presented in this thesis showcases three western states (Arizona, California, and Alaska) to offer a glimpse at similar wildfire behavior and impacts across the West. Thus, the research provided in this thesis applies to most western states and underscores the point that resiliency against wildfires is imperative to ensuring the protection of the nation’s natural resources, communities, and critical infrastructure. As a result, this thesis offers four recommendations that include community involvement, the allocation and utilization of resources (i.e., personnel, equipment, and technology), immediate action from policymakers, and examination of alternative solutions (i.e., technology and “Smokey the Beaver”). In all, the wildfire threat will continue to evolve in the United States, especially in the West, so action must be taken, and solutions must be identified for years to come to mitigate wildfire impacts on forests, communities, and critical infrastructure.