USDA Forest Service

 To understand the role of fire information in Wilderness fire management.

 To understand the role of the WFRA in support of fire information.

 To gain tips and tools for being effective in guiding the incident Public Information Officer in incorporating Wilderness into media efforts.

 Attitudes about fire policy, fire management, and/or Wilderness.

 Information leads to understanding.

 Understanding leads to support.

 Work with the media and conduct public meetings.

 Run a trap line coordinating with local residents.

 Work with in-holdings.

 All other normal duties of the PIO.

 Help explain fire policy, fire response, tactics/actions.

 Help explain the difference between general wildland and Wilderness fire fighting.

 Work with the PIO to get our information out.

WFRA Incident only Media, Local communities, incident personnel, other agencies/orgs PIO Incident only

Forest PAO

Non-incident NIFC National fire issues WO Press Office

  Protect  Watershed areas   Biological diversity Cultural and historic areas and provide     An opportunity for solitude and scenery Economic value Educational opportunities and recreation

 Natural fire occurrence  Change in landscapes due to fire intensity/lack of fire  Balance between allowing some fire and suppressing others  Challenge to get to a fire in Wilderness

 Access for media to interview firefighters.

 Access to photograph the fire.

 What resources are in the fire area  List of Wilderness values at risk- specific Wilderness issues and fire fighting methods for suppression and rehab.

 No policy prohibits USDA Forest Service employees from posting information or photographs about their professional lives on their personal social media sites.  However, all information and photos/videos regarding incidents should be routed through the proper channels.

Alice Cohen, Public Affairs and Education Specialist National Forests in North Carolina 828-257-425 [email protected]