Every year, devastating wildfires burn across the United States. At the same time, a growing number of people are living where wildfires are a real risk such as Utah. Also with the effects of climate change becoming more prevalent and wildfires becoming more destructive it’s important for planners to think about how to protect our cities. Utah has a lot of open space, forests, and public lands and wildfires are an increasing risk in western states due to drought from climate change. Many areas have development in close proximity to these areas and are particularly vulnerable to wildfire damage. Draper City Fire Marshal, Don Buckley, will discuss the wildland urban interface and wildland fire preparedness. He will go over what Draper City is doing to help prepare vulnerable neighborhood to help reduce risk and important steps that can be included when reviewing developments and codes for these areas. This session will include a hiking tour of some open space areas.

Speaker(s)

Assets