This is Northwest Regional RC&D's signature project. Hazardous Fuels Reduction is one of the most pro-active ways landowners can make their property "Firewise" and minimize the impacts of wildfire to homes, neighborhoods, and communities.

"Firewise" is a national, multi-agency program that encourages individuals and groups to cooperate to protect people, property, and natural resources from the risk of wildland fire – before a fire starts. As more homes are built in the wildland urban interface (WUI) of northwest Montana, it is imperative for landowners to take responsibility and actions to lessen the risk of wildfire.

The cost of treating non-sellable woody fuels is a significant obstacle for many landowners. Thanks to multiple grants from the Montana DNRC and the US Forest Service, RC&D has been able to inform landowners and communities about "Firewise" standards and help implement practices on private property. RC&D is usually able to provide cost-share funding to encourage fuel treatment.

RC&D also encourages development of markets for small woody material such as post and poles, pulpwood, and hog fuel. Utilization of economically marginal material creates additional jobs and also reduces the need for slash burning and promotes better air quality.

A publication titled "LIVING WITH FIRE – Homeowners’ Firesafe Guide for Montana 2009" published by FireSafe Montana is posted on our website and provides excellent information for any landowner concerned with wildfire. We have also posted our "Landowner’s Guide to Hazardous Fuels Reduction" to explain how we can help you with your property.