9FBEEDF2E62C9213872582C60068BAF3 Hearing Summary

Mike Morgan, Division of Fire Prevention and Control (DFPC), Colorado Department of Public Safety (DPS), introduced himself to the committee. He introduced additional DFPC presenters Vaughn Jones and Melissa Lineberger, and DPS Director Stan Hillkey, and he described the division's work. Committee members received three handouts from DFPC [Attachments A, B, and C].

Mr. Morgan continued to discuss the divisions within DFPC and their work.

Vaughn Jones, Wildland Fire Management Section, DFPC, discussed his section's work and their role in fire management. He described the division's firefighting air resources, including single engine air tankers, type 2 helicopters, and multi-mission aircraft.

Mr. Morgan described various wildfires in the state in 2018. He explained how wildland fire responsibility is determined among fire protection districts, county sheriffs, and the state. He also discussed support the state provides prior to state responsibility to keep fires small.

Mr. Morgan provided an overview of legislation from 2018 impacting DFPC, including an additional $3 million General Fund provided to the Wildfire Preparedness Fund.

Mr. Morgan discussed strategic planning with stakeholders at DFPC, explaining that the division aimed to develop a long-term strategy for DFPC support to the state's fire agencies. He responded to committee member questions about the role of existing advisory committees in this process.

Mr. Morgan described the challenges identified in the strategic planning process. He explained that the state is not yet prepared to respond to its wildland fire problems. He responded to committee member questions about how local governments can better coordinate with state departments.

Mr. Morgan responded to committee member questions about the locations of the division's air resources and the availability of ground crews.

Mr. Morgan responded to committee member questions about DFPC's role in fire mitigation. Discussion ensued on fire mitigation.

Mr. Morgan provided the committee with eight working group recommendations to improve wildland fire response in the state.

Melissa Lineberger, DFPC Chief of Staff, responded to committee member questions about the state's use of predictive technology in tracking fire development.