Using focus groups for knowledge sharing: Tracking emerging pandemic impacts on USFS wildland fire operations

Abstract

In early 2020 the US Forest Service (USFS) recognized the need to gather real-time information from its wildland fire management personnel about their challenges and adaptations during the unfolding COVID-19 pandemic. The USFS conducted 194 virtual focus groups to address these concerns, over 32 weeks from March 2020 to October 2020. This management effort provided an opportunity for an innovative practice-based research study. Here, we outline a novel methodological approach (weekly, iterative focus groups, with two-way communication between USFS staff and leadership), which culminated in a model for focus group coordination during extended crises. We also document the substantive challenges USFS wildfire employees discussed, including: conflicting policies and procedures; poor communication; ill-defined decision space; barriers to multi-jurisdictional resources; negative impacts on work-life balance; and disruption of pre-season training. USFS focus groups were effective for knowledge sharing among employees and elevating issues to top levels of the USFS management structure.

Citation

Flores, David; Fox, Rebekah L.; Jahn, Jody; Conley, Craig; Howes, Satoris S.; Iverson, Joel O.; Venette, Steven J.; Haire, Emily R.; Stoof, Cathelijne R. 2024. Using focus groups for knowledge sharing: Tracking emerging pandemic impacts on USFS wildland fire operations. Society and Natural Resources. https://doi.org/10.1080/08941920.2024.2341271.