Second Human Dimensions of Wildland Fire Conference

Final Conference Program Booklet
Final Conference Proceedings

Human behavior – at individual, group and organizational levels – lies at the root of many of wildland fire management’s most serious problems including:

  • Firefighter and public safety
  • Acceptance or opposition to smoke, prescribed fire, and fuels treatments
  • Community and homeowner fire protection and hazard mitigation
  • Fire communication and education
  • Social and economic impacts of fire and fire suppression
  • Organizational performance – from operational efficiency to cost management and from community relations to ecological outcomes
  • Public response during fires

Over the past decade fire researchers and practitioners have developed a significant body of knowledge about many of these social aspects of fire management. Each group brings key competencies, perspectives and experiences to the table. This conference will provide participants with an opportunity to present, discuss, and learn about the latest research findings, management innovations, and best practices in the US and elsewhere.

Conference Objectives

  • Provide a forum for sharing what has been learned about the diverse social elements of wildland fire management
  • Discuss how this knowledge can be used and expanded upon by land managers, fire managers and public leaders to effectively achieve their assignments and goals
  • Identify knowledge gaps and opportunities for innovation and development
  • Explore ways for fire scientists and fire science users to expand collaborations and develop and test new knowledge

To achieve these objectives the conference will use a variety of means to share information including individual presentations, panel discussions, and round table forums.