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Configure the ArcGIS Pro Project Template


Configuring the ArcGIS Pro Project Template will streamline data edits and map creation and provide a solid foundation for the duration of an incident.

Note: It is very important to begin with a new zip of the Current_GeoOps_Folder_Structure when setting up a project. This will allow the Pro Project Template to establish the correct file pathways. Reusing the folder structure or the Pro Project Template is not recommended.
  1. In the \projects folder, open the 2026_ProProjectTemplate APRX file.
  2. A display issue affects the Home Folder name in some versions of Pro. In the Project Folders under Contents, rename the Home Folder after confirming the underlying connection is correct.

    Rename home folder. 
    Rename home folder demo.
  3. In the Project Databases folder under Contents, rename the Default GDB (other_incident_data GDB) with the incident name and Unique Fire ID.

    Rename the GDB

    Note: A slow double-click on the database name in the Catalog View must be used to update the name. The Rename button will be grayed out. Be sure to rename the Default GDB prior to opening the provided Map View or a database lock will be created, and you will be unable to rename the Default GDB.

  4. Rename the Annotation and Progression GDBs.

    Rename the annotation progression GDB
  5. Navigate to the Project Maps folder. Open the provided map view {MapType}_2026_{IncidentName}.

    1. Add the Incident Name to the map title, but leave {MapType}.

      Map type Demo
    2. Repair the path of the DynamicTextUpdate table to the existing table in the Default GDB (other_incident_data.gdb).

      Repair default GDB
       
    3. Set the coordinate system of the map to a local projected coordinate system.

      Set coordinate systems.
       

    Note: By setting the coordinate system now, all incident projects will inherit this configuration. If you do not wish to use the same coordinate system for all incident projects, this can be set after each Save-As of the ProProjectTemplate APRX.

  6. Save the Project.

 

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NWCG Latest Announcements

2025 Wildland Fire EMS Awards

Date:  June 12, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Emergency Medical Committee

The NWCG Emergency Medical Committee (EMC) announces the recipients of the 2025 Wildland Fire Emergency Medical Service (EMS) Awards. EMC annually recognizes individuals and groups who have demonstrated outstanding actions or accomplishments that are above and beyond the expectation of one’s normal mission or job duties.

Congratulations to all the awardees and nominees. Through leadership and initiative, they have made significant contributions to the safety of the wildland fire community. These awards are well deserved.

References:

2025 Wildland Fire EMS Awards

Emergency Medical Committee

Incident Position Standards and the Next Generation Position Task Book Now Available for RAMP

Date:  June 12, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Airtanker Base Operations Unit

NWCG is excited to announce that Incident Position Standards and the Next Generation Position Task Book are now available for Ramp Manager (RAMP).

The Performance Support Package for this position was developed as part of the Incident Performance and Training Modernization effort. These resources support trainees, qualified personnel, and evaluators in their respective roles.

Any changes to qualification pathways will take effect with the next update of the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Position Qualifications, PMS 310-1, scheduled for release in January 2027.

References:

NWCG Ramp Manager Position Page

National Interagency Aviation Committee

Make an Impact: Serve the Wildland Fire Community as an IPTM SME!

Date:  June 11, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: NWCG SME Specialist

Note: Positions with an * will last approximately 6 months.
Positions with ** will last 12 - 18 months.

NWCG is seeking experienced wildland firefighters and support personnel to serve as Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) for the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) initiative. IPTM aims to transition NWCG’s training and qualification system to a performance-based model by updating position descriptions, Incident Position Standards, Next Generation Position Task Books (Next Gen PTBs), and training where needed.

NWCG is currently recruiting SMEs for the Fall 2026 positions listed below:

  • Equipment Manager (EQPM)*
  • Fixed Wing Parking Tender (FWPT)**
  • Mixmaster (MXMS)*
  • Public Information Officer Complex (PIOC)*
  • Retardant Crewmember (RTCM)*
  • Strike Team Leader Crew (STCR)*
  • Strike Team Leader Engine (STEN)*
  • Strike Team Leader Heavy Equipment (STEQ)*
  • Task Force Leader (TFLD)**
  • Wildland Fire Investigator (INVF)** 

Projects begin October 2026. Sign up by July 10, 2026, at the link below and review the attached document for additional details. 

References:

NWCG SME Interest Sign-up

IPTM Subject Matter Expert Duties and Expectations Document

Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM)

RMC Safety Bulletin 26-001: Rhabdomyolysis in Wildland Firefighters

Date:  May 28, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Risk Management Committee

The Risk Management Committee (RMC) has issued Safety Bulletin 26-001: Rhabdomyolysis in Wildland Firefighters. Research from 2016 to 2025 shows that 88 cases of rhabdomyolysis (rhabdo) were reported. Analysis of reports from eSafety, the Safety Management Information System (SMIS), and the Wildland Fire Lessons Learned Center (LLC) indicates that rhabdo is common during this time of year due to Work Capacity Tests and contributing factors such as weather, hydration, nutrition, and medication or supplement use.

RMC issued this safety bulletin to raise awareness in the Wildland Fire Community, and to provide research findings and educational resources that support reducing future cases of rhabdo.

References:

NWCG Alerts

RMC Safety Bulletin 26-001: Rhabdomyolysis in Wildland Firefighters