S. 5293: Pilot for Regional Emergency Prepositioning of Aerial Resources and Equipment Act

This bill would create a pilot program to set up seasonal prepositioning plans for aerial wildfire suppression resources, such as aircraft and related equipment, before fires start or worsen. The goal is to improve response to early-season wildland fires fueled by fine, dry grasses and other light fuels.

What agencies would do

The bill directs:

• The Secretary of Agriculture, through the Forest Service’s fire and aviation management leadership, and
• The Secretary of the Interior, through the Wildland Fire Service (or a successor agency)

to establish the pilot program.

Where it would apply

The pilot would focus on Nebraska, Colorado, Kansas, South Dakota, and Wyoming.

How it would work

The agencies would need to set up the program in line with each state’s existing Master Cooperative Wildland Fire Management and Stafford Act Response Agreement. They would also have to work in consultation with the Rocky Mountain Area Coordination Center.

Funding

The bill says the program must be carried out using money already available for wildland fire management. It does not provide any new funding or authorize additional appropriations.

Practical effect

In plain terms, the bill would encourage federal wildfire agencies to plan ahead and place aircraft and related fire-suppression resources closer to areas in these five states where early-season grass and similar fires are more likely, so they can respond faster if a fire starts.

Relevant Companies

None found