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South Arkansas Fire Protection District and NCCC Collaborate on Fuels Mitigation at Salida Water Galleries

The South Arkansas Fire Protection District (SAFPD), in partnership with the National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC), Colorado Firecamp, and the City of Salida, recently conducted a community fuels mitigation project at the Salida Water Galleries. This initiative reflects SAFPD’s commitment to proactive wildfire prevention and community protection.

As part of SAFPD’s service requirements, all crew members are required to complete 24 hours of community service annually focused on wildfire mitigation  or other community impact projects. This project provided an opportunity for SAFPD firefighters to work alongside NCCC AmeriCorps members to reduce hazardous fuels and create strategic fuel breaks around critical City of Salida property.

The work involved clearing brush, thinning overgrown vegetation, and removing ladder fuels to reduce wildfire intensity should a fire occur in the area. By creating defensible space and improving access for emergency response, these efforts help safeguard vital municipal infrastructure and nearby neighborhoods.

“Projects like this are essential to reducing wildfire risk in our community,” said Division Chief of Wildfire, Christopher Bainbridge, “By partnering with NCCC and Colorado Firecamp, we’re able to accomplish meaningful mitigation work while engaging community members in fire prevention.”

NCCC AmeriCorps teams are made up of young adults who commit to national service by supporting community projects across the country. Their involvement brings valuable manpower and energy to local wildfire mitigation and preparedness efforts.

This collaborative effort aligns with the City of Salida’s ongoing commitment to wildfire risk reduction and resilience. By investing in mitigation now, the city aims to reduce suppression costs and protect critical assets during future wildfire events.

May contain: clothing, glove, person, adult, male, man, helmet, worker, and bag
NCCC members conducting mitigation work in Salida Water Galleries. Members are wearing chainsaw chaps, helmets, and other protective gear.
People in safety gear walking through a forested area with fallen branches.
NCCC members conducting mitigation work in Salida Water Galleries. Members are wearing chainsaw chaps, helmets, and other protective gear.
A person operating a wood chipper in a forested area, surrounded by trees and dust.
Colorado Fire Camp crew member using a track chipper to mitigate woody materials
May contain: clothing, glove, person, adult, male, man, helmet, worker, and bag
People in safety gear walking through a forested area with fallen branches.
A person operating a wood chipper in a forested area, surrounded by trees and dust.