Governor Tina Kotek Calls Emergency Session for Wildfire Funding

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek is moving quickly to address the financial aftermath of the state’s devastating 2024 wildfire season. On December 12, 2024, she convened a special legislative session to expedite emergency funding, ensuring that unpaid contractors and wildfire workers receive their compensation after an unprecedented season of destruction.

Wildfire Season By the Numbers

This year’s wildfire season was historic, with over 1.9 million acres burned — nearly triple the 10-year average of 640,000 acres. The fires caused extensive damage to communities and forests, with firefighting costs exceeding $350 million. State agencies like the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) and the Oregon Department of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) have reported substantial financial strains, with hundreds of vendors owed more than $98 million for services rendered. (Source)

Governor’s Proposal

Governor Kotek’s emergency proposal includes:

• $218 Million in Emergency Funding: To pay contractors and ensure firefighting agencies can continue operations.
• $150 Million from the State Rainy Day Fund: Allocated to reinforce wildfire suppression efforts.
• Increased Future Budget Allocations: An additional $130 million for wildfire readiness and prevention initiatives in the next budget cycle. (Source)

Why It Matters

These emergency measures aim to:

1. Ensure Immediate Compensation: Hundreds of contractors and fire crews have been waiting months for payment.
2. Reinforce State Preparedness: The funding will bolster Oregon’s ability to respond to wildfires in future seasons.
3. Protect Local Economies: Many contractors depend on timely payments to sustain their businesses and livelihoods.

Legislative Action

During today’s session, lawmakers will deliberate on the Governor’s funding request. Approval would allow state agencies to settle their financial obligations promptly and continue critical wildfire response and prevention work.

The session underscores the growing urgency of addressing wildfires’ increasing frequency and intensity due to climate change. It’s a pivotal moment for Oregon’s resilience against natural disasters and for the people who risk their lives to protect communities.

Stay Informed

To follow the latest developments, visit:

• Oregon Department of Forestry Updates
• AP News: Wildfire Emergency Session
• KATU News Coverage

You can edit or expand as needed! Let me know if you’d like more details or tweaks.

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Apply for the Community Wildfire Defense Grant Today

The USDA Forest Service offers the Community Wildfire Defense Grant (CWDG) to help at-risk communities reduce wildfire risks and improve safety. Learn more and apply on Grants.gov!

The post Federal Funding Opportunity: Wildfire Defense in High-Risk Communities appeared first on Wildfire Watchdog.

Funding Opportunities for Communities at Risk of Wildfires

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Funding Opportunities for Communities at Risk of Wildfires

The USDA Forest Service has opened applications for the Community Wildfire Defense Grant (CWDG) program, a key initiative aimed at helping communities prepare for and mitigate wildfire risks. This funding opportunity is designed to support at-risk communities in building resilience and enhancing safety measures to combat wildfires.

What the Community Wildfire Defense Grant Covers

The CWDG program focuses on critical wildfire prevention and preparedness efforts, including:

• Creating or Updating Community Wildfire Protection Plans (CWPPs): These plans are essential for identifying risks and implementing targeted strategies to reduce wildfire impacts.
• Fuel Reduction Projects: Clearing hazardous vegetation, brush, and other flammable materials to prevent the spread of wildfires.
• Community Education and Engagement: Promoting awareness about wildfire risks and empowering residents to take proactive measures.

This program prioritizes communities that:

• Have been severely impacted by wildfires.
• Are located in areas with high wildfire risks.
• Have low-income or underserved populations that require additional resources to mitigate fire hazards.

You can find detailed information about the grant on the USDA’s Community Wildfire Defense Grants webpage.

Eligibility and Application Process

To apply for this grant, follow these steps:

1. Review Eligibility Requirements: Communities that meet the program’s priorities will be given special consideration. For eligibility details, visit the eligibility section here.
2. Prepare Your Application: Include information on the intended projects, how they align with the program's goals, and the expected outcomes.
3. Submit Your Application: Detailed instructions for submission, deadlines, and required documentation are available on the USDA's grant application page.

How Wildfire Watchdog Fits In

At Wildfire Watchdog, we’re dedicated to helping communities implement advanced wildfire mitigation strategies. Our wildfire sprinkler systems can play a key role in the types of projects funded by the CWDG. These systems:

• Protect Homes and Neighborhoods: By keeping roofs, walls, and surrounding areas wet, they reduce the spread of fire.
• Integrate with Community Plans: Designed to complement CWPPs and other fire-prevention strategies.
• Enhance Safety for Residents and Firefighters: Systems can be remotely monitored and activated, even if homeowners have evacuated.

Take Action Today

This grant is a unique opportunity for at-risk communities to enhance their wildfire preparedness and resilience. Whether you’re looking to update a CWPP, conduct fuel reduction projects, or educate your community, the CWDG can provide the financial support you need.

For more information and to apply, visit the USDA Forest Service’s official announcement here.

Source: USDA Forest Service

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Wildfire Watchdog News

Form an effective plan

Developing Fire-Adapted Communities: Insights from Research on Wildfire Preparedness

Wildfires are an ever-present threat to communities situated in fire-prone areas. Developing strategies to adapt to wildfire risks is essential for ensuring the safety of homes, neighborhoods, and natural landscapes. A critical research study, “Developing Fire-Adapted Communities”, sheds light on how communities can enhance their resilience through proactive planning and preparedness.

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What Are Fire-Adapted Communities?

A fire-adapted community is one that understands its wildfire risk and has taken deliberate steps to minimize the impact of wildfires. This concept emphasizes not just prevention, but preparation, mitigation, and response. Communities that integrate fire adaptation practices reduce wildfire risks, protect lives, and safeguard property.

Key components of a fire-adapted community include:

• Comprehensive wildfire risk assessments.
• Defensible space around homes and infrastructure.
• Fire-resistant construction materials and landscaping.
• Community engagement and education.

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Lessons from the Research

The study highlights the importance of collaborative approaches in fostering wildfire resilience. Here are some key takeaways:

1. Community Engagement Is Key:
   • Involving residents in wildfire planning is crucial. Local knowledge combined with expert guidance creates tailored and effective solutions.
2. Defensible Space and Fire-Resistant Design:
   • Maintaining defensible space and using fire-resistant building materials are fundamental practices to protect individual properties.
3. Collaborative Planning:
   • Coordinated efforts between landowners, local governments, and fire management agencies result in stronger wildfire preparedness and response strategies.
4. Ongoing Education:
   • Awareness campaigns and community education ensure residents remain informed about wildfire risks and their roles in mitigation efforts.

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How Wildfire Watchdog Can Enhance Preparedness

Incorporating proactive tools into wildfire resilience plans is a vital step. Our wildfire sprinkler systems are designed to complement defensible space and fire-resistant construction by adding a layer of active protection. These systems can:

• Reduce Fire Spread: By wetting roofs, walls, and surrounding vegetation, sprinklers create a barrier that slows down or prevents the spread of fire.
• Work Remotely: Our systems allow fire departments or foresters to monitor water levels and activate sprinklers even if a property is evacuated.
• Integrate Seamlessly: They can be implemented as part of broader community wildfire protection plans to safeguard multiple properties in high-risk areas.

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Building Resilience Together

Wildfire risks are inevitable, but through proper planning and collaboration, communities can adapt and thrive. The insights from this study highlight the importance of proactive measures, and tools like wildfire sprinklers can be a vital part of the solution.

If your community is interested in enhancing its wildfire protection plan or learning more about sprinkler systems, contact us today. Together, we can create safer, more resilient neighborhoods that are prepared for the challenges of wildfire season.

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About

Community Wildfire Defense Grant Program

Community Wildfire Defense Grants: Join Us in Protecting Our Communities

Wildfires pose a serious threat to homes, neighborhoods, and entire communities, especially those in wildfire-prone areas like the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI). To combat this, the Community Wildfire Defense Grant (CWDG) program, offered by the USDA Forest Service, provides critical funding for wildfire prevention and mitigation projects.

At Wildfire Watchdog, we are committed to creating safer neighborhoods through innovative wildfire sprinkler systems that protect homes from the devastating impacts of wildfires. That’s why we’re excited to announce that we are applying for a CWDG to help bring these life-saving solutions to more communities.

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Why We’re Applying for the CWDG

This grant will allow us to expand our mission by:

• Supporting communities in implementing wildfire sprinkler systems for homes and neighborhoods.
• Helping to create or update Community Wildfire Protection Plans (CWPPs).
• Partnering with local residents and fire departments to install cutting-edge wildfire defense technology.

The CWDG program prioritizes communities that need it most, including those affected by recent wildfires or classified as low-income. By securing this funding, we can make wildfire prevention accessible to more people, particularly in areas where it is needed most.

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How You Can Get Involved

We’re not just applying for this grant for ourselves—we’re also here to collaborate. If you have insights, suggestions, or ideas that could help make this initiative a success, we’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re part of a neighborhood group, a community leader, or someone who wants to bring wildfire defense to your area, let’s work together to make it happen.

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Working with Your Community

If you’re interested in exploring wildfire defense solutions for your community or neighborhood, we’d be happy to partner with you. Together, we can:

• Develop tailored solutions for your area.
• Help secure funding through grants like the CWDG.
• Create a safer environment for your family, neighbors, and first responders.

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Let’s Build a Safer Future Together

This grant is an incredible opportunity to take proactive steps in protecting homes and neighborhoods from wildfires. If you have ideas, questions, or simply want to join us on this journey, please reach out. Together, we can create a network of fire-safe communities, one neighborhood at a time.

Let’s protect what matters most—together.

Wildfire watchdog

thewildfirewatchdog@gmail.com

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• Here are the specs to a generic 196 cc motor

Here are the specs to the Honda 200 GX

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Automated Wildfire Protection System: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

In the face of increasing wildfire threats, having an automated wildfire protection system is more crucial than ever. Our system is designed to be user-friendly and highly efficient, offering both manual and automatic activation options. Here’s how it works:

System Activation

Trigger: The system can be activated either by a virtual push button in a mobile app or by flame sensors.
Fire Department Override: In emergency situations, the Fire Department has the ability to override the system for immediate activation.

Pump Priming (Valve 1)

Action: The first step is to open Valve 1, which primes the pump with water from the source.

Pump Power Initialization

Action: A relay output, known as RO1, is used to activate the pump’s battery, powering up the system.

Pump Start

Action: The pump’s starter and choke are engaged for 3 seconds to initiate the pumping process.

Sprinkler Activation (Valve 2)

Action: Valve 2 is opened to route water to the sprinkler system, activating the sprinklers.

Vibration Sensor Monitoring

Action: A wireless vibration sensor is used to confirm that the pump is operational and running as expected.

Flow and Immersion Sensors

Flow Meter: This sensor checks the water flow rates to ensure optimal operation.
Immersion Sensor: This sensor monitors the water levels in the tank to prevent overflow or depletion.

Foam Proportioning and Zoning (Valves 3, 4, 5)

Action: Valve 3 is opened to enable foam proportioning.
Zones: The system activates Zone 1, which targets the roof, and Zone 2, which targets the sides of the house. Each zone is active for 20 minutes.

Landscape Irrigation (Valves 6, 7, 8)

Action: Valve 6 is opened to allow fresh water for landscape irrigation.
Zones: Zone 3 irrigates the North landscape, and Zone 4 irrigates the South landscape. Both zones are active for 20 minutes.

Continuous Monitoring

Sensors: The system employs a Pressure Immersion Sensor, Flow Meter, and Vibration Sensors for real-time monitoring.
Alerts: The system will alert you for empty tank conditions, abnormal flow rates, or excessive pump vibrations.

System Shutdown and Refill (Valves 2, 6, 9)

Action: All active valves are closed to shut down the system.
Refill: Valve 9 is opened to refill the water tank from an external source.
Fail-Safe: As a safety measure, Valve 9 will automatically close once the sensors indicate that the tank is full, preventing any overflow.

Conclusion

Our automated wildfire protection system is designed to offer maximum safety with minimum hassle. With its user-friendly interface and advanced sensor technology, it provides a comprehensive solution for wildfire protection.

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Introduction

The threat of wildfires is a growing concern for many communities, especially those located near wildland areas. While traditional firefighting methods focus on controlling the wildfire itself, there’s a shift in perspective that emphasizes home ignition as the real problem. This brings us to the importance of exterior fire sprinklers as a proven, affordable, and easily implementable solution for protecting homes and properties.

Effectiveness Proven

Exterior fire sprinklers have been shown to be highly effective in protecting properties during wind-driven wildfires. In one case, exterior sprinklers were installed on numerous properties, including homes and resorts. All of these properties survived the wildfire, while more than 100 neighboring properties were destroyed.

Affordability

The cost of installing exterior fire sprinklers can be covered by hazard mitigation grants. For an average home, the installation cost ranges from $10,000 to $15,000. Grants can cover a significant portion of this cost, making it affordable for individual property owners.

Additional Funding

Due to the success of these sprinkler systems, additional grants have been awarded to expand the installation of wildfire sprinkler systems in various counties. These grants have also been used to retrofit homes with non-flammable roofing and ember-resistant attic vents.

How They Work

Exterior sprinklers operate by creating an environment that extinguishes embers, which are the primary cause of building ignition during wildfires. They achieve this by:

1. Hydrating potential fuels, making them less susceptible to ignition.
2. Increasing humidity around the property.
3. Creating a cooler microclimate around the home.

Overcoming Doubts

There are common misconceptions about the feasibility of exterior fire sprinklers, such as:

• High cost
• Ineffectiveness in windy conditions
• Loss of water pressure during catastrophic events
• Power outages disabling water pumps

However, these concerns are either incorrect or can be easily addressed. For instance, wind has been shown not to significantly impact the effectiveness of the sprinklers. Also, independent systems can be set up to operate off the grid, ensuring functionality even during catastrophic events.

Conclusion

Exterior fire sprinklers offer a proven and affordable solution for protecting homes and properties from the devastating effects of wildfires. They are an essential tool in the arsenal of wildfire preparedness and should be considered by any community or individual living in wildfire-prone areas.

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