Donnelly Fire Department hosts Wildfire Preparedness Day with community engagement activities

The Valley County Board of County Commissioners held a meeting on April 28, 2025, addressing several key community concerns, particularly around wildfire preparedness and grant funding for fire mitigation efforts.

One of the most significant announcements was the upcoming "Bring It, Don't Burn It" event, scheduled from May 24 to June 5. This initiative will provide residents with bins for disposing of yard waste, helping to reduce fire hazards in the community. The bins will be located at local fire departments, continuing a service that has proven essential for residents looking to manage their yard debris safely.

In conjunction with this event, the county is gearing up for Wildfire Preparedness Day on May 10 at the Donnelly Fire Department. This event will feature various booths and activities aimed at educating the public about wildfire risks and safety measures. Attendees can expect to receive free Firewise plants and engage with local fire safety representatives, including Smokey the Bear.

The meeting also highlighted the ongoing work on the Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP), which is crucial for securing grants aimed at wildfire mitigation. The CWPP is set for final updates and approval, with a request for edits from commissioners due by May 1. This plan will serve as the foundation for future funding applications, underscoring the county's commitment to enhancing fire safety measures.

Additionally, the county is collaborating with Boise State University to evaluate last year's evacuation efforts in Cascade. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of communication during emergencies and will involve sending surveys to homeowners in various zones to gather feedback on their experiences.

A pressing concern raised during the meeting was the significant increase in applications for Firewise grants, which rose from 40 to 70 this year. However, the funding available remains limited, with only $50,000 allocated annually to support these applications. The total funding needed to cover all requests amounts to $238,000, highlighting a substantial gap that could jeopardize the program's future if additional funding is not secured.

In conclusion, the discussions at the meeting reflect Valley County's proactive approach to wildfire preparedness and community safety. As the county moves forward with its initiatives, the outcomes will be closely tied to securing necessary funding and engaging residents in fire prevention efforts.