Defensible Space Resources
1 – How to Become a FireWise USA Neighborhood
As a resident in a wildfire-prone area, you may have heard of the Firewise USA program. But what exactly is it, and how can it benefit your community?
The Firewise USA program, sponsored by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), is a voluntary program that teaches people how to adapt to living with wildfire. By becoming a recognized Firewise USA neighborhood, you’ll gain access to valuable resources and guidance to help you protect your homes and community from the threat of wildfire.
Joining the Firewise USA program is a proactive step toward building a more resilient and fire-adapted community. It brings neighbors together, fosters a shared sense of responsibility, and provides peace of mind knowing you’ve taken concrete steps to protect what matters most.
Contact: Austin Reimer – ODF Stewardship Forester at Austin.B.Reimer@odf.oregon.gov
Austin and a team will come to your HOA, Road District or Neighborhood meeting to get you started!
2 – Central Oregon Wildfire Workforce Partnership
Is your home in need of fire fuels reduction like tree thinning, chipping, brush removal, and/or ladder fuels reduction? Please complete the application below. Staff will reach out within a week to discuss if your property is a good fit. To discuss a potential fuels reduction project in your community, fill out the application here.
Contact: Paul Catino, Forest Fuels Project Planner at pcatino@coic.org
3 – Deschutes County Fall Fuel Reduction Grant Program
Each year, Deschutes County allocates funding for Fall Fuel Reduction Projects, aimed at reducing wildfire risk in Deschutes County communities. Preference will be given to communities or neighborhoods that are working towards or have already achieved recognition as a Firewise USA ™ site and are proposing projects consistent with their Firewise action plan and community assessment. Applications are typically accepted September 1 through September 30.
Contact: Lauren Street, Natural Resources Specialist, at 541-322-7141 or forester@deschutes.org
4 – UDRC Defensible Space Programs
UDRC Defensible Space Reimbursement Program
Coming soon!
Funding for the 2026 Defensible Space Reimbursement Program is included in the La Pine Wildfire Mitigation Project 5-year grant awarded to Deschutes County from the US Forest Service. Funds will be available for new applications after formal agreements have been approved and funds allocated.
The UDRC will help property owners within the La Pine Rural Fire Protection District with the cost of creating or maintaining defensible space for wildfire risk reduction. The UDRC will reimburse your expenses for licensed contractors, rental equipment, and home hardening materials up to $500 maximum.
UDRC Low-income Senior or Low-income Disabled Defensible Space Program
The Low-income Defensible Space program is open for new applications.
This program provides assistance to property owners who cannot do the work themselves or afford to hire someone else to do the work. UDRC has partnered with Council on Aging of Central Oregon to provide free wildfire fuels reduction services for low-income senior or low-income disabled homeowners within the La Pine Rural Fire Protection District.
Click here to visit the UDRC website to learn how to apply for Low-income Senior or Low-income Disabled Defensible Space Program