Science exchange to address some of wildfire’s most pressing issues: WUI, fuels reduction, Tribal engagement, & post-fire response

The Joint Fire Science Program (JFSP) established the Fire Science Exchange Network to bridge the gap between research and practice, ensuring wildland fire science meets the evolving needs of landscapes and communities. Now more than ever, the urgency of wildfire challenges—across ecological, cultural, and social dimensions—demands innovation and collaboration. This session will showcase eight examples from across the U.S. that reflect how the Network addresses these needs through targeted engagement and science delivery. Presentations include tools and partnerships for implementing fuel breaks in northern communities, supporting aspen management through cross-boundary science, and assessing post-fire recovery strategies through projects like SEEDS and the After the Wildfire Guide for Arizona. Other talks highlight approaches to communication, such as improving wildfire preparedness resources for non-English-speaking communities in California and creating smoke outreach tools for prescribed fire programs. A video storytelling project demonstrates how community values and fire history can shape future fire decisions, while another presentation shares a collaborative effort to build Tribal capacity for fire and fuels monitoring. Together, these efforts illustrate the power of meaningful partnerships and tailored science communication to support fire-adapted landscapes and resilient communities. Ample time will be provided for audience discussion and knowledge exchange.