| Abstract: |
Most wildfire education programs have relied overwhelmingly on homeowner information and education, limiting the role of such business professionals as architects, builders, insurance agents, landscape architects and contractors, planners, media, and realtors. This project was undertaken to engage and educate professionals who design landscapes and homes, work for home and property owners, and make decisions that affect homeowners and communities—and in the long run, to change best management practices in these industries. Market surveys for the target professions were conducted at the outset, reaching 58 individuals and organizations and gathering information on continuing education requirements, subject relevance, training format, pricing, and marketing.About 30 business professionals were involved in the selection of existing materials and development of curriculum for four modules: industry issues, fire environment, building materials and design, and site planning and maintenance. Four seminars were held in March 2007 at sites that provided geographic and time-of-day distribution, and 100 business professionals attended from the target audiences. Ongoing project evaluation incorporated the market scoping, interaction with business groups, and classes. The project team identified new business practices and cooperative efforts that contribute to property-loss prevention, are economically viable, are likely to be adopted, and extend the reach of the traditional fire and land management professionals. |
