To prepare the county for future wildfires the Santa Barbara County Fire Safe Council (SBCFSC) has initiated a Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) for the Lompoc Valley.

A CWPP is a collaborative effort that brings together state, local and tribal governments, fire departments, community organizations, and community members.

The CWPP identifies wildfire hazards, assesses the vulnerability of local communities, and prioritizes specific mitigation strategies to reduce risks and enhance preparedness.

The planning process helps create a more coordinated, community-driven approach to wildfire risk reduction and emergency response.

The SBCFSC has appointed Monica Mathews as project manager for the initiative. Mathews will oversee the planning process, working with a diverse group of community members and advocates, including County Fire, Lompoc Fire, Lompoc City, local tribal leaders, and land managers.

The partnerships are key to ensuring the CWPP reflects the specific needs and priorities of the local Lompoc Valley.

Once relevant community advocates are engaged in the planning process, the project team will hold a series of public meetings to gather comments from the Lompoc community.

At the meetings residents can voice their concerns, offer ideas, and participate in shaping a future plan that impacts their community’s safety from wildfire.

To join the email list for updates, click here. Join the email list here to receive updates.

Local organizations interested in participating or learning more, can contact Mathews at mmathews@sbfiresafecouncil.org or call 805-220-9037 ext. 705.

Funding for Lompoc CWPP is provided by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection’s Wildfire Prevention Grants Program as part of the California Climate Investments Program.

The SBCFSC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a mission to promote wildfire safety in Santa Barbara County through education and action. For more, visit sbfiresafecouncil.org.

The Wildfire Prevention Grant Program is part of California Climate Investments, a statewide program that puts billions of Cap and Trade dollars to work reducing GHG emissions, strengthening the economy, and improving public health and the environment–particularly in disadvantaged communities.

Learn more at caclimateinvestments.ca.gov.