City Club Missoula hosts wildfire preparedness forum with expert panel

The City Club Missoula's June forum focused on the pressing issue of wildfires, bringing together experts to discuss policy preparedness and planning in the face of increasing wildfire risks. The event, held on June 12, 2025, featured a panel of distinguished speakers, including Kimmy Barrett from Headwaters Economics, Greg Dillon from the Fire Modeling Institute, Karen Hughes from the Missoula County Planning, Development, and Sustainability Department, and Adrian Beck from the Office of Emergency Management.

Kimmy Barrett opened the discussion by emphasizing Missoula's significant role in wildfire research and management. She highlighted the community's need for effective strategies to adapt to the realities of wildfires, which are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change. Barrett's work focuses on community-driven solutions that aim to reduce wildfire risks and improve resilience.

Greg Dillon, with over 25 years of experience in wildfire management, shared insights from his work at the Missoula Fire Sciences Lab. He discussed the importance of scientific research in understanding fire behavior and developing effective management practices. Dillon's expertise underscores the critical need for informed decision-making in wildfire policy.

Karen Hughes addressed the intersection of land use planning and wildfire risk reduction, stressing the importance of community engagement in developing sustainable practices. She pointed out that proactive planning can significantly mitigate the impacts of wildfires on local communities.

Adrian Beck, responsible for emergency management in Missoula, discussed the city's preparedness for wildfire emergencies. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between city and county agencies to ensure a coordinated response to wildfire threats.

The forum not only highlighted the expertise present in Missoula but also served as a call to action for residents and policymakers alike. As wildfires continue to pose a significant threat, the discussions underscored the need for ongoing community engagement and proactive planning to safeguard lives and property.

In conclusion, the City Club Missoula's forum on wildfires provided valuable insights into the challenges and strategies for managing wildfire risks. The expertise shared by the panelists reflects a community committed to addressing these pressing issues, ensuring that Missoula remains a leader in wildfire preparedness and resilience.