National Wildfire Coordinating Group

National Interagency Fire Center
3833 S. Development Avenue
Boise, ID 83705

The National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) and the Fire Executive Council (FEC) recommend that member agencies pursue implementation of the strategic intent expressed in the Interagency Aviation Strategy as developed by the National Interagency Aviation Council (NIAC). The attached report suggests, “As agencies develop implementation plans, more detailed cost analysis and further consideration of program workload adjustments may be necessary to achieve optimized savings and efficiency. Agencies may determine more cost effective ways to implement changes than this report currently reflects. Timing of implementation may also adjust.” Consequently, specific recommendations may require some further analysis. Given the current budget climate, interagency coordination is required to move forward in a conservative, but joint fashion.

Specific priority will be given to the management considerations contained in the report. Maintaining current capability in terms of numbers of helicopters and fixed wings is a higher priority now than increasing those numbers. Conversion of contracts from call-when-needed to exclusive use or from contracted to government-owned require additional consideration. New technology should be adopted when possible, with longer implementation timelines.

The NWCG requests annual updates from the agencies on implementation progress. These updates should be provided to the NIAC each October, and further information will be forthcoming on specific data requirements. The strategies outlined in this document will facilitate increased safety and cost effectiveness for interagency wildland fire organizations in the future. It is contingent upon all of us to utilize all opportunities to move forward to make this strategic vision a reality.

Attachment
cc: NWCG Executive Board