The City of Boulder is seeking community participation in a survey aimed to help develop an updated Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) for 2024. All Boulder community members are encouraged to offer feedback in the survey.
The CWPP identifies wildfire risks in the wildland-urban interface (WUI), which refers to the area between wildland and human development.
A crucial aspect of the CWPP is to recommend strategies for reducing the risk of hazardous fuels, enhancing public outreach and education, lowering the ignitability for structures, and improving fire response capabilities. Funded by Boulder’s Climate Tax, passed by voters in November 2022, the CWPP will serve as a guiding document that will assist the city and landowners in making informed decisions with respect to wildfire preparation and management.
“This plan will help us align on our core objectives and develop strategies around the biggest risk factors related to wildfires,” said Fire Chief Michael Calderazzo. “We are eager to work with SWCA and members of the community we serve to enhance the coordination and sophistication of our preparedness and response.”
Environmental consulting group SWCA will work with city staff to build an interactive project website that combines maps and storytelling. This will be a primary means of two-way communication, allowing wildfire specialists to disseminate information and gather community input regarding this project. The site will serve as a platform for the ongoing implementation of the CWPP and allow for appropriate updates as local conditions change. The city and SWCA are planning future engagement opportunities to help shape the CWPP.
Community feedback is essential, and we thank community members in advance for their participation in the survey.
The City of Boulder remains committed to the safety and well-being of all community members, and this CWPP update represents another significant step in mitigating the risks posed by wildfires.
About SWCA: SWCA Environmental Consultants provides a full spectrum of environmental services focused on environmental planning, permitting, and compliance; cultural, natural, and water resources management, and climate change consulting. For more information on SWCA, visit https://www.swca.com/.