Gallagher advances wildfire mitigation in Water Resources Development Act

Congressman James Gallagher helped secure wildfire mitigation language in the Water Resources Development Act that strengthens planning requirements for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, helping better protect Northern California communities from the growing threat of catastrophic wildfire.

The language requires the Army Corps to consider wildfire risk when planning and carrying out projects under the legislation. By incorporating wildfire mitigation into project planning, the measure encourages a more proactive approach to protecting communities, infrastructure and natural resources before disasters occur.

“Northern California has experienced firsthand the devastating consequences of catastrophic wildfire,” said Gallagher. “We’ve learned that protecting lives and communities starts long before a fire ignites. This provision helps ensure wildfire mitigation is part of the planning process from the beginning so we can protect our communities, strengthen resilience, and reduce future risk.”

Gallagher has consistently championed efforts to reduce wildfire risk by improving forest management and strengthening community preparedness. The Water Resources Development Act builds on those efforts by recognizing that wildfire planning should be incorporated into the development of critical infrastructure projects.

Steve Crowder, Mayor of Paradise, welcomed the legislation.

“This wildfire mitigation provision is a critical step toward protecting communities like Paradise that know all too well the devastating impacts of catastrophic wildfire,” Crowder said. “We appreciate Congressman Gallagher’s continued leadership and his commitment to making sure wildfire resilience remains a priority as infrastructure projects move forward.”

The wildfire mitigation provision is included in the Water Resources Development Act, which will be considered by the full House of Representatives.