Jeff Bingaman: “It is important to ensure sufficient levels of funding for all programs related to the National Fire Plan. For example…”

“It is important to ensure sufficient levels of funding for all programs related to the National Fire Plan. For example, Congress specifically instructed the agencies to target hazardous fuel reduction funds near communities that are at high risk from wildfire. In addition, the Rural Fire Assistance program strengthens the wildland fire protection capabilities of rural fire departments by providing technical assistance, training, and supplies. Moreover, economic action programs assist rural communities in developing and marketing products created from the little trees removed as part of fuels reduction efforts. Other cooperative fire protection programs, that provide assistance for complementary hazardous fuels reduction projects on non-Federal lands in the wildland/urban interface and educate homeowners about the proper way to fire proof their homes, are also essential elements of our cohesive efforts to diminish fire risks.”