EAB Chair Urges Reader Participation in Wildfire
This marks an exciting time for Wildfire magazine. With the formation of this committee, a commitment to the readership (past, present and future) has been expressed. This founding board will assist Penton Media and the IAWF in meeting the needs of the wildfire community. Everyone on the board is dedicated to quality content and timely information that provides thoughtful insight into the current issues that face fire managers today. We are excited to begin down this road and see tremendous opportunities to provide leadership in this arena.
The 2008 wildfire season has proved to be challenging to say the least. My condolences go out to those affected by the many tragic incidents that occurred this year. My personal involvement in the Iron 44 incident has solidified my resolve that we as fire and aviation managers can prevent these tragedies from occurring. With adequate training, experience and managers dedicated to safe and efficient operations, the fire community can minimize these types of losses.
As the fire season winds down, I ponder how we can learn from our experiences this season. The answer is here, in this magazine and this newly formed Editorial Advisory Board. Wildfire magazine is the last remaining publication in the United States dedicated to the wildfire community, and you, our readers, can help.
With your assistance, we can create a premier publication that meets your needs. You are the ones in the field, in the station, in the pilot's seat or managing an incident or fire program. Your stories are what make a difference; your experiences useful when presented to all. So, I issue a challenge. Write. Write about something that happened to you, relate your experience to your peers and use this publication as your vehicle.
So as your fire season winds down, take your time for reflection — then pick up the pen and tell us about the close call, the community project, the amazingly simple idea that changed everything for you, whatever has made a difference to you can help others. Relate your experience so that all can learn from it. The possibilities are limitless; help make this publication the go-to resource for the wildland fire community.
