Every year, wildfire threatens communities, landscapes, and critical infrastructure. To better prepare for these risks, Gunnison County, Colorado developed a Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP): a collaborative framework to reduce risk and strength response strategies. 

Gunnison County’s CWPP brought together local fire districts, federal agencies, utilities, wildlife experts, and the public. From lead team meetings to stakeholder groups and map walk events, Gunnison County held dozens of meetings and events to involve the community. 

In partnership with Colorado State University’s Colorado Forest Restoration Institute, Gunnison County used a Risk Assessment and Decision Support (RADS) process to guide plan development. By combining scientific data with local input, RADS helps prioritize actions where they’ll have the greatest impact. The planning process also incorporated the use of Potential Operational Delineations (PODs): geographic areas based on natural barriers like roads and rivers. These PODs help firefighters identify where suppression efforts can be most effective and safest. 

Finalized in May 2025, the CWPP is already moving into implementation, with Gunnison County and its partners pursuing funding, permits, and identifying treatment areas. The plan is more than a one-time effort, it’s living—designed to balance near-term action with long-term resilience. 

As the plan moves into action, the goal is clear: to help Gunnison County live with fire, not in fear of it. Through a combination of data, collaboration, and strategic planning, the CWPP offers a resilient path forward for the people, wildlife, and landscapes of Gunnison County. 

*Photo courtesy of Gunnison County