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Abstract
To reduce the risk of wildfire in the California urban interface often requires actions that will be viewed by members of the public as having adverse effects on such resources as wildlife, vegetation, views, air quality, and recreational opportunities. These citizens can substantially delay and even thwart development of fire management plans. In developing such a plan for an area in southern Marin County, California, public agency staff and its consultants encountered significant public opposition. The successful completion and adoption of the plan required an extensive public participation process. The rationale and format for the public participation process are described. As important as the format selected is the mindset of the staff and consultants involved in the process. The attitude of "care" on the part of staff and consultants is investigated and found to be a critical attribute in dealing with the public on controversial plans.
Parent Publication
Citation
Charles, Leonard. 1995. Social and environmental issues in developing vegetation and fire management plans. In: Weise, David R.; Martin, Robert E., technical coordinators. The Biswell symposium: fire issues and solutions in urban interface and wildland ecosystems; February 15-17, 1994; Walnut Creek, California. Gen. Tech. Rep. PSW-GTR-158. Albany, CA: Pacific Southwest Research Station, Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture; p. 117-122
