The state Wildland Fire Advisory Committee will make crucial recommendations to the Washington legislature next month on managing over 350,000 acres of “no man’s land” – areas not covered by any fire protection agency. These discussions, stemming from the committee’s recent meeting, aim to address gaps in fire protection and policy inconsistencies.
Proposed Measures and Financial Challenges
One key recommendation is to assign jurisdiction of these unprotected lands to the state Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The committee suggests imposing an assessment, though anticipated revenues from such assessments, estimated at around $150,000, fall short of covering full protection costs. DNR Southwest Region Manager Todd Weilker noted that even at an assessment rate of $0.27 per acre, the generated funds would barely cover the cost of an additional fire engine.
To bridge this financial gap, the committee supports using general fund allocations to supplement the Forest Fire Protection Assessment (FFPA) fees, which are currently bolstered by legislative general funds to meet existing fire protection demands.
Another challenge involves clarifying the definition of forestland that falls under local fire district jurisdictions but is subject to DNR’s FFPA. This inconsistency in application has led to budgetary impacts on rural fire agencies. The committee’s draft report aligns with a 2017 legislative review, advocating for clearer definitions and consistent assessment policies to possibly reduce unprotected land by over 200,000 acres.
Debating Rangeland Fire Protection Associations
The committee deliberated on whether to allow the formation of Rangeland Fire Protection Associations (RFPAs), private groups run by ranchers who respond to wildfires in areas lacking fire protection. While states like Oregon and Idaho permit such associations, the committee could not reach consensus. Proponents argue that RFPAs could provide swift initial responses to wildfires due to their proximity to the land. However, opponents caution that RFPAs might lead to confusion and less efficient fire responses, suggesting that statewide protections under the committee’s recommendations render RFPAs unnecessary.
What to Expect?
The final vote on these recommendations is scheduled for October 24. If approved, these changes could significantly impact how Washington manages and finances wildfire protection in its most vulnerable areas, aiming for a more cohesive and efficient statewide fire response system.