Chapter 1. Indexing Resource Data for Forest Health Decisionmaking

Summary A workshop involving 35 scientists was held at Pingree Park, Colorado in October, 1996, to develop procedures for evaluating the hazards and risks associated with extreme wildfire events in central and western Colorado. The basic question was: “Can the existing resource data be used to estimate and portray wildfire hazards and risks in sufficient spatial detail to be useful as a strategic planning and communications tool for decisionmakers? The answer, we believe, is “Yes, with some qualifications.” Illustrations of relative wildfire hazards and the related risks to a variety of resources can be developed, and these can guide discussions about strategic planning for wildfire mitigation efforts. The products can be developed within a period of a few months at reasonable cost, and the lessons learned in this exercise can help make the effort more efficient.