National Approach to Wildfire Data and Technology Blog Series

Part 3 of 4: Equal and Reciprocal Access to Federal Data for Non-Federal Partners

Written by James Puerini and Cole Von Glahn

The success of a national wildfire data ecosystem hinges on reciprocity. The current landscape remains fragmented. Non-federal partners are often sidelined by a “who-you-know” system that relies on legacy connections rather than standardized, open access. Conversely, federal managers struggle to consistently pull in non-federal data to provide a full picture. 

In the third installment of our research series with the Environmental Policy Innovation Center (EPIC), we examine the blueprint components needed for a modern wildfire intelligence capability designed to act as a definitive, cross-boundary integration layer. This includes:

• Breaking Silos: Shifting from centralized data production to a model where distributed producers interact seamlessly with an integrated national picture.

• Streamlining Partnerships: The importance of formalized agreements in ensuring Tribal, state, and local stakeholders can participate fully.

• Strategic Assets: How reciprocal exchange transforms disparate data into an asset that improves decision-making and maximizes taxpayer dollars.

Read the full post on EPIC’s website here.

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Missed the start of the series?

• Revisit Part 1, focusing on effective governance pathways, here.  

• Catch up on Part 2, focusing on operations-centered innovation, here.