In 2004 the National Fire Plan continued to make significant strides in its long-term commitment to help protect communities, natural resources, and - most importantly, the lives of firefighters and the public - by minimizing the threats of wildland fire.
As the National Fire Plan enters its fifth year, we again want to recognize the superior accomplishments of those land managers and community members who are dedicated to the goals of the National Fire Plan. Once again we ask your assistance in recognizing the accomplishments of those who stand out in your community working toward National Fire Plan goals. It is those select few who have exceeded expectations who deserve special recognition for their commitment and hard work.
Nominations must be received by COB November 19, 2004.
In 2004 seven National Fire Plan award categories will recognize outstanding accomplishments related to implementation of the National Fire Plan:
- Excellence in Community Assistance
- Excellence in Collaboration
- Excellence in Hazardous Fuels Reduction
- Excellence in Firefighter Preparedness, Training and Safety
- Excellence in Rehabilitation and Restoration
- Innovation in Biomass Utilization
- Excellence in Research (new in 2004)
Awards will be presented at the National Fire Plan annual meeting the week of February 14-18, 2005 in Albuquerque, New Mexico (registration information for this meeting will be posted in the coming months on this site).
Award nominations will be evaluated by a panel of reviewers from state and federal government agencies as well as non-government organizations. The category-specific criteria will be judged on the nominated project's overall scope, degree of innovation, degree to which collaboration and partnerships were employed, and demonstrated commitment to the National Fire Plan goals.
Projects may be nominated for more than one award category. However, there must be a separate nomination package submitted for each category for which the project is nominated, with each nomination package addressing the criteria for that category.
Please review the links at left for award categories, criteria, and information on the nomination process. Please direct any questions about the 2004 National Fire Plan awards to Melissa Zaksek (mzaksek@fs.fed.us).
Last year's awards are listed [HERE].
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