JACKSON, Wyo. — Jackson Hole Fire/EMS announced on Thursday, April 17, that the Teton Area Wildfire Protection Coalition (TAWPC) is hosting three free events between April and August that focus on community wildfire preparedness.
To help plan for the approaching wildfire season, the presentations and panel discussions will share wildfire mitigation solutions and community adaptation strategies, according to Jackson Hole Fire/EMS.
“I would like to encourage community members to take this opportunity to engage on these critical issues and spend time with our incredible public safety partners,” Jackson Mayor Arne Jorgensen said in the press release.
The first event is scheduled for Thursday, April 24, at 5:30 p.m. The Teton County Library will screen the film, “The Fire Problem,” which explores ways to help communities better prepare for wildfire incidents, according to Teton County. Following the movie, a panel discussion will be led by representatives from the U.S. Forest Service, Wyoming State Forestry, Jackson Hole Fire/EMS, Teton Conservation District, The Greater Yellowstone Fire Action Network and Jackson Hole Insurance.
According to Jackson Hole Fire/EMS, the second and third events will be announced later this summer.
Jackson Hole Fire/EMS wrote in the announcement that more than 850,000 acres burned across the state in 2024, with the Pack Trail Fire between Jackson and Dubois accounting for 89,215 of those acres. Over the past 25 years, many notable fires have impacted Teton County, including Green Knoll, Horse Thief, Swinging Bridge, Museum, Saddle Butte and Berry fires.
“The number, size, strength and frequency of wildfires only seems to be intensifying,” Jackson Hole Fire/EMS wrote. “As a result, the negative impacts from wildfires, such as poor air quality, road closures and evacuations, are becoming more common for wildfire-prone communities. Identifying risks, taking mitigation efforts and preparing and planning before a wildfire hits, can minimize impacts and help communities live with wildfire.”
