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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 2025_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

  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 and progression GDBs

  5. Navigate to the Project Maps folder. Open the provided map view {MapType}_2025_{IncidentName}.

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

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

      Repair the default GDB

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

      Set the 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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Call for Nominations: Paul Gleason Lead by Example Award

Date: December 11, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
 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.

This award, is presented by the NWCG Leadership Committee to remember Paul Gleason's contributions to the wildland fire community and to recognize individuals or groups that exhibit the same spirit and dedication to leadership – those who lead by example.

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. 

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References:

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

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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:

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Date: October 15, 2025
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The campaign is structured into four quarters and may be completed at any time between October 1, 2025 -December 31, 2026. Leadership levels will be released quarterly.

Quarter One materials are now available on the Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program website and focus on Leadership Level 1, Follower (Self-Leadership).

References:

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This instructor-led course is a primer on leadership and the second formal course in the Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program. It helps emerging leaders build the confidence, skills, and mindset needed to lead effectively in high-risk environments. 

For more information about leadership development and available courses, visit the Leadership Committee Web Portal.

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