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Data Preparation

The Data Preparation section of the NWCG GISS Workflow lays the groundwork for the rest of the incident.

Follow the NWCG Standards for Geospatial Operations (GeoOps), PMS 936 for structure and organization for consistency.

Never skip steps in the Data Preparation section to save time during the often-chaotic incident ramp up, it will only require more effort in the long term.

GISS Workflow Diagram: Data Preparation

Data Preparation – Do Once

  1. Gather incident information - Name, Unique Fire ID (Unit ID + Local Incident Number), IRWINID, etc.
  2. Implement the GeoOps incident directory structure. Download the zip folder, extract the YYYY_Template folder, and rename for incident.
  3. Populate the base_data folder with data relevant to the fire area.
  4. Configure the Pro Project Template
    1. Rename project databases
    2. Rename map view with incident name and set local projected coordinate system.
    3. Repair path of Dynamic Text Update table to other_incident_data.gdb.
  5. Save as on the Pro Project Template to create the Edit Project. Name per GeoOps standards {map type} = “edit”.
    1. Ensure you are signed into the NIFC AGOL as your active portal.
    2. Optionally, add a vector tile layer basemap to map.
    3. Create an Offline Copy.
      1. Add the hosted National Incident Feature Service (NIFS).
      2. Zoom to incident area of interest (AOI).
      3. Select Download Map to create an Offline Copy. Optionally, download a vtpk of the vector tile layer simultaneously.
    4. Repair path of Event Layers to Offline Copy and remove duplicate service from map.
    5. Configure Feature Templates.
    6. Save a group layer file for Event Features in the incident_data/edit folder and include your name.
  6. Create and Share Web Maps for mobile data collection and information sharing.
Image
GISS Workflow Diagram: Data Preparation

Figure 1. GISS Workflow Diagram: Data Preparation
(click image to enlarge)

 

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YouTube Playlist: Data Preparation

 

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NEW! S-320, Introduction to Incident Management Teams (Blended) Available Now

Date: December 18, 2025
Questions about RT-130? 
Please contact: Incident and Position Standards Committee

NWCG is excited to announce that S-320, Introduction to Incident Management Teams (Blended) is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal!

This blended course combines online learning with instructor-led training, designed for individuals seeking to build leadership skills and gain experience in incident management.

Students are required to complete the prerequisite trainings ICS-100, Introduction to Incident Command System (ICS), ICS-200, Basic ICS for Initial Response, and ICS-700, An Introduction to the National Incident Management System (NIMS) prior to attending S-320.

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S-320, Introduction to Incident Management Teams (Blended)

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New! Ransom Road WFSTAR Module

Date: December 16, 2025
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Please contact: NWCG Audiovisual Specialist

NWCG is excited to announce the release of the new Ransom Road Fire Module to RT-130, Wildland Fire Safety Training Annual Refresher (WFSTAR).

This module features a firsthand account from Rob Lee, official reports, and animated maps of the Ransom Road Fire which occurred on June 8, 1981, in Florida's Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.

The module is available now in NWCG's RT-130, WFSTAR Catalog.

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Call for Nominations: Paul Gleason Lead by Example Award

Date: December 11, 2025
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 Leadership Committee 

Do you know someone working in wildland fire who strives to make positive change and is undeterred by obstacles or setbacks? Now is your chance to give that person the acknowledgment they deserve by nominating them for a Paul Gleason Lead by Example Award.

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Nominations can be submitted via email with an attached Lead by Example Form to BLM_FA_Leadership_Feedback@blm.gov or through the online form. 

Tips for successful nominations and more information can be found on the Lead by Example webpage. All nominations must be submitted by December 31, 2025.

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Coming Soon! Ransom Road WFSTAR Module

Date: December 9, 2025
Questions about RT-130? 
Please contact: NWCG Audiovisual Specialist

On June 8, 1981, the Ransom Road Fire swept across Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge in Florida, marking a defining moment in wildland fire management. This event led directly to the creation of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's professional fire program.

Later this month, NWCG will release a compelling video that brings the Ransom Road Fire to life through firsthand accounts, official reports, and animated maps. Rob Lee, second on site during the deployment, shares his powerful recollections of that day. 

This video will be going live later this month in NWCG's RT-130, Wildland Fire Safety Training Annual Refresher (WFSTAR) Catalogue.

References:

WFSTAR Catalogue 

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