Truckee Fire urges residents to participate in fire protection programs

TRUCKEE, Calif. – Building on the success of the Wildland Fire Prevention Division's developments in 2022 and 2023, Truckee Fire is once again launching a robust set of programs and initiatives aimed at reducing wildfire risks forests and improve the resilience of communities. Truckee Fire is urging residents and property owners to join forces to take proactive measures against the looming threat of wildfires.

During their first season, Measure T-funded programs saw significant engagement and produced tangible results, highlighting the community's commitment to wildfire prevention. However, Truckee Fire recognizes the importance of greater participation from residents and property owners to strengthen the region's defenses against wildfires.

“Last year's success demonstrated our community's dedication to protecting our homes and neighborhoods from the devastating effects of wildfires,” noted Truckee Fire Chief Kevin McKechnie. “While we are excited by the participation we have seen, it is imperative that we continue to come together and amplify our efforts. Increased participation from residents and property owners will be essential to our collective mission to mitigate wildfire risk.

The comprehensive suite of programs includes personalized defensible space and home hardening assessments, community grants for wildfire prevention, and strategic partnerships for fuel reduction and green waste disposal initiatives. These initiatives, supported by Measure T funding, aim to equip communities with the tools and resources needed to effectively fight wildfires. In detail, they include:

Free inspections of defensible spaces: Truckee Fire, in partnership with Fire Aside, offers personalized Defensible Space Inspections (DSI) to homeowners, residents and community members. These inspections provide an interactive task list with clear instructions on creating a fire-safe environment. Participants can schedule inspections online and receive a comprehensive guide once completed. The checklist includes tasks such as reducing fuels, removing shrubs and lower branches of trees, planting low fire hazard vegetation and improving home structures. Fire Aside reports an 81% homeowner action rate after inspection. Learn more at http://www.truckeefire.org/dspace.

Free green waste disposal programs: Truckee Fire supports curbside green waste collection and dumpster delivery programs to assist homeowners in their fire prevention efforts. As winter snow melts, it is crucial to remove fallen trees and branches. Residents must build their pile and then register for the online collection service. Eligible materials include tree branches, shrubs and trees up to eight inches in diameter. Details at http://www.truckeefire.org/greenwaste.

$500 Home Hardening Rebate Program: Wind-borne embers are the primary cause of a home igniting, and hardening your home can help protect it in the event of a wildfire. This process involves using noncombustible building materials, keeping the area around your home free of debris, and taking other measures to prevent embers from entering the home. Thanks to Measure T, homeowners can get up to $500 rebate for renovating their home. You can start by scheduling an inspection of the defensible space. Learn more about:

Up to $500,000 in wildfire prevention grants: Truckee Fire's Wildfire Prevention Grant Program provides up to $500,000 for fuel reduction, community preparedness or forest management projects within district boundaries. Truckee Fire aims to fund multiple projects equitably throughout the district. No funding limits. Projects may focus on forest fuel reduction, forest health, community preparedness, or wildfire prevention education. Requirements at http://www.truckeefire.org/grants.

Continuing and Comprehensive Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP): Truckee Fire's Measure T-supported Community Wildfire Protection Plan outlines fire risk reduction priorities and initiatives for the Wilderness Urban Interface Zone. Highly trained wildfire prevention officials collaborated with experts, Vibrant Planet's Land Tender decision support software, and the community. The CWPP serves as a roadmap for wildfire resilience and prioritization of project areas. The CWPP is in its final form and will be implemented by implementing agencies and organizations this summer.

“We have seen first-hand the difference that proactive measures can make in minimizing wildfire threats,” emphasized Eric Horntvedt, head of forest fire prevention. “As we begin a new season, we call on every member of the community to actively participate in our wildfire management programs. Together, we can fortify Truckee against the dangers of wildfire and ensure a safer, more resilient future.

Truckee Fire encourages residents and property owners to take advantage of the range of resources available and engage wholeheartedly in wildfire prevention efforts. By fostering a culture of preparedness and collaboration, the community can chart a path toward greater wildfire resilience.

For more information on the Truckee Fire and Measure T initiatives, please visit TruckeeFire.org.