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PMS 936-1

Update the Master Incident GDB

Overview of Implementing the Master Incident GDB

The Master Incident GDB is the File GDB used for all incident map creation stored in the \incident_data folder. It is simply a copy of the Offline Copy created after edits are complete.  The Master Incident GDB does not exist as a blank GDB like the annotation and progression GDBs. It must be created for the first time, and then replaced each time edits are made to the Offline Copy that will need to be reflected in printed maps. The Master Incident GDB contains “Event” in the standard file name as it is the implementation of the Event schema.

NOTE: Never edit the Master Incident GDB. All data edits should be completed in the Offline Copy in the Edit Project.

The Offline Copy will be a Mobile Geodatabase. This format should be converted to File Geodatabase for full functionality.

GISS Workflow Diagram: Update the Master Incident GDB

Update the Master Incident GDB – Done After Every Edit Cycle

  1. Back up Offline Copy
    1. Determine the path and name of the Offline Copy.
    2. Convert the Offline Copy (mobile GDB) to a backup GDB (file GDB).  Save into the daily backup folder under incident_data\backups and name following GeoOps.
  2. Create or Replace Master Incident GDB​
    1. If the Master Incident GDB already exists, delete from \incident_data.
    2. Copy the backup to the \incident_data folder and rename it following GeoOps to become the new Master Incident GDB.

Figure 1. GISS Workflow Diagram: Update the Master Incident GDB
(click image to enlarge)

 

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Date:  April 15, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Data Standards and Terminology Board (DSTB)

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The proposed definition is: Practical guidance provided for incident personnel in a manner in which incident objectives can be achieved while reducing impacts to identified resources across the landscape. RPMs are informed by, but not restricted to, Minimum Impact Strategies and Tactics (MIST).

Please review, share with your subgroups, and provide feedback as appropriate through the following form: Request Feedback The comment period will close May 10, 2026.

Thank you for your engagement in the NWCG glossary process – your participation is key to our success.

References:

Glossary Request Feedback

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Questions? 
Please contact: Joe Schindel

The 2026 Core Components Module Package for RT-130, Wildland Fire Safety Training Annual Refresher (WFSTAR) and the 2025 Fire Year in Review are now available on the NWCG website. The 2026 Core Components Module Package provides all content needed to deliver RT-130.

References:

2026 Core Components Module Package

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Date:  March 17, 2026
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Please contact: Fire Behavior Subcommittee

NWCG is pleased to announce that the new S-490, Advanced Fire Behavior Calculations (Blended), 2026 course is now available.

This training includes performance-based activities that allow students to apply the knowledge and concepts required for the Fire Behavior Analyst (FBAN), Long Term Fire Analyst (LTAN), and Prescribed Fire Burn Boss Type 1 (RXB1) positions. It supports individuals working towards these incident qualifications.

This blended course begins with a self-paced online training (OLT) in the Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP), followed by an in-person instructor-led training (ILT).

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S-490, Advanced Fire Calculations (Blended)

NWCG Fire Behavior Analyst (FBAN) Position Page

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