Community Burning In The Sierra Nevada

Community-based prescribed burning is gaining momentum in the Truckee area as residents, landowners, and volunteers come together to put good fire on the ground. Through the Truckee River Prescribed Burn Association (PBA), participants don’t just observe—they actively engage in planning, preparation, and implementation alongside experienced practitioners. This hands-on approach builds real-world skills while strengthening local wildfire resilience.

Training is a core component of every burn. Participants learn ignition techniques, holding operations, weather monitoring, communications, and safety protocols aligned with national standards. These community burns create opportunities to gain experience toward qualifications, while also increasing confidence and competence in using prescribed fire as a tool.

By investing in training and capacity building, the Truckee River PBA is developing a local workforce capable of leading future projects. The result is a stronger, more self-reliant community that can safely and effectively use prescribed fire to protect forests, homes, and the Truckee landscape.