Summary of discussion Q&A from virtual chat "Prescribed fire education training"
We had a great discussion of several prescribed fire topics - liability, insurance, training format, and more! Below is a summary of some of our discussions. For the full chat, see the archive at https://connect.extension.org/...e-education-training
Query: The State of Oregon mandated a certified burn manager program in the early 90âs, however, the mandate was not funded and has sat idle for over 25 years. Does your State have a certified burn manager program, is it legislatively mandated, and how is such a program funded?
Summary: A certified burn manager program looks to be mandated in a few states. Funding allocation is different for every state and some not funded at all.
Query: What opportunities are there in your State to obtain prescribed fire liability insurance? How do private landowners or private companies insure themselves to burn?
Summary: The availability of private prescribed fire insurance seems to vary in space and time.
Query: What level of credentialing is required for your education and training, i.e. NWCG standards or different, please explain.
Summary: Hands down, people thought that NWCG does not work well for providing or developing and meeting the training needs for landowners or the diversity of state / local agencies.
Query: What type of format has been most successful for you when providing prescribed fire education, training, and experience?
Summary: Live fire is a key component for training and online and in-person events for the education. Here is a link for an online opportunity through Oklahoma State Extension, https://osuextension.catalog.instructure.com/
Query: What strategies have you utilized to create and/or maintain a prescribed fire workforce?
Summary: Prescribed fire councils and prescribed burn associations are good way to maintain a better prescribed fire workforce. Also, connect with Extension. Talk to policy and decision makers. Try new things to garner attention like "Fire Festivals."
Query: What type of prescribed fire messaging to private landowners and community members have you found most effective?
Summary: Messaging about fire history and fires role on the landscape has been successful.
In the "Prescribed fire education training" Virtual Chat many informative links were provided by the participants. Check out the links and read the chat archive at, https://connect.extension.org/...e-education-training
For more information on Oregon State University's Forestry & Natural Resources Extension Fire Program visit our website at, https://extension.oregonstate.edu/fire-program
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