As wildfires in the western United States continue to increase in size and number due to historical fire suppression and climate change, it is imperative for people living in fire-prone areas to “live with fire.” Fire suppression efforts are traditionally left to local, state and federal fire or land management agencies. However, high-activity fire seasons are prompting conversations about how private citizens and agencies can “co-manage” wildfire suppression to enable certain communities to better live with fire.

Rangeland Fire Protection Associations (RFPAs) have emerged as a specific type of co-management entity within rangeland communities, allowing citizens to contribute to wildland fire suppression efforts on public rangelands after undergoing firefighter training with agency partners. FireEarth researchers interviewed 29 individuals who were either members and leaders of the Black Canyon RFPA in southwestern Idaho or liaisons from various agencies that interact with the Black Canyon RFPA to explore how RFPAs form and function.

The Black Canyon Rangeland Fire Protection Association-- The Black Canyon RFPA formed as a result of previous disputes between private citizens and fire managers about land access and the right to defend property during wildfire events. Interviewees recalled arguments with firefighters about the boundaries of public and private lands, which created confusion and prevented collective action. Black Canyon RFPA members often encountered roadblocks when returning to defend their land during wildfire events, which they deemed unacceptable. Residents became interested in forming an organization to help resolve these recurring conflicts.