Union Valley Kick-Off Event Set for April 19
information & photo released by Washington State DNR
Local fire districts and residents are working in partnership with Washington Public Lands Commissioner Hilary Franz to expand the Wildfire Ready Neighbors program in the Lake Chelan Valley. Intended to help build community resilience before wildfire season, residents in Union Valley will take part in an on-site media kick-off event scheduled for Tuesday, April 19.
In 2021, Chelan was the first community to launch the Wildfire Ready Neighbors program. In its inaugural year, Wildfire Ready Neighbors secured over 550 sign-ups in Chelan where residents received custom plans to prepare their homes and property ahead of wildfire season, exceeding goals by 22%. Now in its second year, the program is expanding in Chelan, Spokane, and Yakima based on high demand.
During her visit to Union Valley, Commissioner Franz will share how Wildfire Ready Neighbors helps build community resilience and share tips on how residents can sign up to get a free action plan.
The program is a collaborative effort between the Washington State Department of Natural Resources, regional fire districts, community partners, and local wildfire experts to better prepare those most at risk. The effort connects forest health and wildfire experts with residents so that they can take proactive action this spring to help protect their homes and surrounding property from wildfires.
Union Valley is considered one of most at risk areas for wildfire in the local area. Neighbor Captains Johnny and Sara Synder will participate in the Department of Natural Resources home visit next week where media can see firsthand how the program works. Local fire districts will also be in attendance along with their trucks.
For additional information about wildfire preparedness, visit the DNR Wildfire Ready Neighbors website.
