Fire Management Methods
An economic assessment of hazardous fuel load management methods
Project Goal
Over the last decade, the United States has seen a marked increase in the acreage consumed by wildland fires. While the frequency in which these events occur remains relatively stable, an accumulation in hazardous fuel loads poses a direct threat to life, property, and environmental systems. The aim of this study is to consider the various methods by which agencies and organizations manage forest systems and mitigate fire risks.
The project considers the economic burden various methods place on social resources and considers the larger implications of unmitigated accumulation. Specifically, impacts on critical infrastructure, GDPs, and local economies are considered through the investigation. The project aim is to aid decision makers in understanding the economic and social impacts related to wildland fire management funding.
Presentation.pptx
The application of classroom knowledge to aid with developing a practical, policy-based solution.
Swithers_Lit Review .docxLiterature Review
Background information and available literature
Final Project.docxFindings
Report on wildfire prevention economics
About Alex
A husband and father, Alex began his academic career studying environmental engineering at Purdue before transferring to Penn State to get his B.S. in Energy & Sustainability Policy through the College of Earth and Mineral Science. Along the way he has worked in agriculture, civil contracting, and is currently employed as a transmission and distribution designer for electric utilities. EMSAGE Laureate and 2-time EPICS Cocran Award recipient, Alex is a life-long learner with a passion for understanding the relationship between human and natural systems.