Dent legislation to create rangeland fire protection pilot project has public hearing

On Wednesday, Jan. 22, the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee (AGNR) committee held a public hearing on a bill that would direct the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to create a pilot project to better assess measures needed to ensure safe and effective operation of Rangeland Fire Protection Associations (RFPA).

House Bill 1048,  sponsored by Rep. Tom Dent, R-Moses Lake, would allow for public-private partnerships in the form of RFPAs in which citizens would work with fire departments to provide an initial attack.

“Initial attack is the best chance we have to slow down or stop wildfires before they become catastrophic. Washington had a down fire year in 2024, but you only need to look at California to see the devastation and loss if initial attack efforts are not in place if things go wrong,” said Dent. “Public-private partnerships work. It brings parties together that want to achieve the same goal. Local residents know the land, the topography, and where the resources are before the responding emergency management crews can get there. They can be beneficial to the initial attack effort.”

Under the bill, between 2026 and 2029, DNR must conduct an RFPA pilot project in Eastern Washington to assess measures needed for the safe and effective operation of RFPAs.

“RFPA pilot projects should provide good data on how ranchers, farmers, state and federal agencies, and firefighters can effectively work together to protect lives, property and livelihoods,” said Dent. “There are concerns from the state agency and fire jurisdictions, but I am hopeful we can reach an agreement to move this pilot forward. Our state has experienced a lot of loss due to wildfires over the last decade. Any additional tools we can put in place to prevent loss of life, property and natural resources is a big win for everyone.”

The bill has until Feb. 21 to be approved by the committee and to continue through the legislative process.

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Washington State House Republican Communications
houserepublicans.wa.gov