Defensible Space Action Team

We envision a Resilient Newberry Country, where we develop information and resources to prepare for, prevent and respond to wildfire and other adverse events that threaten our community’s health, safety, and well-being.

The Defensible Space Action Team is a part of the NRP’s broader efforts to create a more wildfire-adapted and resilient community. The team works in partnership with other organizations to educate and assist homeowners with creating and maintaining defensible space. Defensible space is the area around a home that is strategically managed to reduce the risk of it catching fire during a wildfire.

By promoting defensible space, the Defensible Space Action Team helps to create safer neighborhoods for residents and provides a safer environment for firefighters responding to a wildfire.

Action Team Leader: Monte Dammarell kmriverhaus@gmail.com

See “RESILIENT NEWBERRY COUNTRY – Our Plan for Wildfire & Public Safety” on page 8 of the Strategic Action Plan 2025-2030.

Expand Funding and Education for Wildfire Preparedness and Prevention

Game Changer Strategy: Establish local government and community-based support for fire-safe education and funding for property owners’ wildfire safety improvements. Conduct regular community-based meetings with fire officials to educate residents about wildfire preparedness and prevention steps. Identify resources to help property owners create defensible space, install fire-safe landscaping, and undertake fire-safe building retrofits. Create a community-based Fire Prevention and Protection Coordinator position that serves Newberry Country.

Sisters Flat Fire- What can we learn from our neighbors?

We’d like to share this video created by the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District following the recent Flat Fire. Please take some time to view!

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.

https://newberryregionalpartnership.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Firewise-USA_PWNC_20250717.pdf

Contact: Austin Reimer ODF Stewardship Forester at Austin.B.Reimer@odf.oregon.gov

Austin will come to your HOA , Road District or Neighborhood meeting to get you started!

2 – 2025 Fall Fuel Reduction Grant Program

Deschutes County has allocated $125,000 for the fall of 2025 to fund 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 will be accepted starting September 1, 2025 through September 30, 2025.

Contact: Kevin Moriarty, Deschutes County Forester and Project Wildfire at Kevin.Moriarty@deschutes.org

3 – 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

Defensible Space Action Team