BIA Wildland Fire and Aviation Program Organization and Responsibilities. Chapter 1. Chapter 2 Program Policy, Leadership and Guidance Overview

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2 Chapter 1 BIA Wildland Fire and Aviation Program Organization and Responsibilities Chapter 2 Program Policy, Leadership and Guidance Overview Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter 7 Chapter 8 Fire Management Program Planning Program Preparedness / Readiness Wildland Fire Prevention Fire Fighting Equipment Fire Fighting Crews Aviation Operations Chapter 9 Safety and Risk Management Chapter 10 Chapter 11 Chapter 12 Chapter 13 Business Management and Administration Incident Organization, Management and Operations Developing a Response to Wildfires Training and Qualifications Chapter 14 Financial Management Chapter 15 Chapter 16 Emergency Stabilization (ES) and Burned Area Rehabilitation (BAR) Programs Ready Reserve Program Chapter 17 Tribal Contract s/compacts Chapter 18 Chapter -19 Reviews and Investigations Suppression Chemical and Delivery Systems

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4 TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter 1 BIA Wildland Fire and Aviation Program Organization and Responsibilities A. Introduction B. Wildland Fire Management Organization C. Oversight Responsibilities Director, Branch of Wildland Fire Management Deputy Director, Branch of Wildland Fire Management Assistant Director, Fire Operations Associate Director, Fire Use & Fuels Management Assistant Director, Planning Assistant Director, Training Aviation Program Manager APPENDIX 1-1 Bureau of Indian Affairs Wildland Fire and Aviation Management Organization Chart Chapter 2 Policy, Leadership and Guidance A. Introduction B. Federal Wildland Fire Policy Guiding Principles Federal Wildland Fire Management Policy Guidance for Implementation of the Federal Wildland Fire Management Policy Implementation of the Federal Wildland Fire Management Policy Department of the Interior Wildland Fire Management Policy (1998) Secretary of the Interior Assistant Secretary - Policy, Management and Budget (PMB) Assistant Secretaries for Land and Minerals Management, Fish and Wildlife and Parks, and Indian Affairs C. Bureau of Indian Affairs Fire Management Policy Mission Wildland Fire Management Objectives Responsibility D. Wildland Fire Program Leadership Wildland Fire Leadership Council (WFLC) Interagency Fire Executive Council (IFEC) National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) E. Wildland Fire Coordinating Groups Office of Wildland Fire Coordination (OWFC) National Multi-Agency Coordination Group (NMAC) Geographic Multi-Agency Coordination Groups (GMAC) Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) National Interagency Coordination Center (NICC) Geographic Area Coordination Centers (GACC) RELEASE JANUARY 2011 i

5 TABLE OF CONTENTS BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS Chapter 2 continued Policy, Leadership and Guidance F. Wildland Fire Interagency Agreements for Coordination and Cooperation Department of the Interior and Department of Agriculture Interagency Agreement International Agreements Memorandum of Understanding with Fire Departments Interagency Agreement with US Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service G. National Standards - Guides and Handbooks National Interagency Mobilization Guide (NFES 2092) Incident Response Pocket Guide (PMS 461) Wildland Fire Qualifications System Guide (PMS 310-1) Fireline Handbook (PMS 410-1) Interagency Incident Business Management Handbook (PMS 902-1) The Interagency Burned Area Emergency Response Guidebook and DOI Burned Area Rehabilitation Guide Interagency Prescribed Fire Planning and Implementation Procedures Reference Guide Chapter 3 Program Planning A. Fire Management Plans Purpose Procedures NEPA and the Fire Management Plan B. Program Assessment Fire Program Analysis Fire Program Workload Shares Fire Program Complexity C. Situational Decision Support D. Support Planning Elements Fire Season Length and Determination Unit Identifiers Fire Danger Rating E. Fire Occurrence Data and Reporting Scope and Purpose Data Sources, Forms, Reports, and Systems Individual Fire Reports (DI-1202-BIA) Incident Status Summary Reports (ICS-209) Situation Report Records Management for Fire Reports F. Fire Weather Fire Weather Stations APPENDIX 3-1, Interagency FMP Template ii RELEASE JANUARY 2011

6 BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter 4 Program Preparedness/Readiness A. Introduction B. Preseason Agreements, Contracts and Operating Plans Authorities Responsibility and Procedure Agreement Elements Types of Agreements Annual Operating Plans for Agreements Contracts Emergency Assistance to Other Jurisdictions Federal Emergency Management Agency and the WFM Program C. Program Preparedness/Readiness Reviews Purpose D. Fire and Aviation Safety Reviews Purpose E. Administratively Determined Casual Pay Reviews F. FireCode FireCode Application FireCode Business Rules G. National Fire Danger Rating System Introduction NFDRS and Program Management H. Seasonal Risk Analysis Introduction I. Severity Definition Objective Interagency Severity Requests Requesting Fire Severity Funding Typical Uses Authorization Short Term Severity Funding National Level Severity Funding Labor Cost Coding for Severity Funded Personnel Documentation Severity Audits J. Radio Communications Policy Radio Frequency Management Pre-assigned National Frequencies APPENDIX 4-1 Interagency Severity Funding Request APPENDIX 4-2 AUTOMATED INFORMATION SYSTEMS APPENDIX 4-3 BIA FireCode Activity Matrix RELEASE JANUARY 2011 iii

7 TABLE OF CONTENTS BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS Chapter 5 Wildland Fire Prevention A. Introduction B. Wildland Fire Prevention Program Guidance Current Program Prevention Planning Funding Opportunities for Prevention Activities Prevention Program Monitoring and Review Wildland Fire Investigation National WeTIP Program APPENDIX 5-1 BIA Regional Wildland Fire Prevention Specialists Chapter 6 Fire Fighting Equipment A. Introduction B. National Model 52 Wildland Engine Program C. Mission/Policy D. Model 52 Replacement Guidelines E. Organization Administration Emergency Repairs Non-Emergency/Non-Suppression Repairs F. Operational Procedures G. Engine Crew Staffing Type 6 and 7 engines will have a minimum crew of two - an engine boss (ENGB) and a firefighter Type II (FFT2) Type 3, 4 or 5 engines will have a minimum crew size of three: H. Driving Standards I. Commercial Drivers License (CDL) J. Casuals Hired as Drivers When Employed By BIA K. Standards for Wildland Engines Engine Water Reserve Chocks Fire Extinguisher First Aid Kit Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) L. Speed Limits M. Lighting N. Emergency Light Use O. Fuel Use, Storage and Transportation P. Fire Engine Maintenance Procedure and Record Q. Vehicle Repairs Maintenance R. Engine Inventories S. Water Tenders Water Tender (Non-Tactical) Water Tender (Tactical) iv RELEASE JANUARY 2011

8 BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter 6 continued Fire Fighting Equipment T. Dozer/Tractor Plows Dozer/Tractor Plow Training and Qualifications Dozer/Tractor Plow Physical Fitness Standards Dozer/Tractor Plow Operational Procedures U. All Terrain Vehicles (ATV)/ Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTV) V. Required PPE ATV Head Protection for Wildland Fire Operations: UTV Head Protection Helmets must meet DOT, ANSI Z90.1; or Snell SA2005 or SA2010 unless: Eye protection (goggles, face shield, or safety glasses) based upon JHA If operating ATV/UTV on the fireline, the following are required: W. Operational Guidelines for Invasive Species X. Aerial Ignition Devices Y. Ground Ignition Devices APPENDIX 6-1 Engine Equipment Inventory Chapter 7 Fire Fighting Crews A. Introduction B. Interagency Hotshot Crews Policy Mission Program Guidance IHC Organization Safety Training Physical Fitness Standards Operational Procedures Communications Transportation Equipment Inventory IHC Development Process C. Type 2 Crews Policy Mission Crew Organization National Minimum Standards (Physical Fitness and Training) for Fire Fighters Personal Gear Requirements for Firefighters EFF Program Management and Funding APPENDIX 7-1 Minimum Crew Standards for National Mobilization APPENDIX 7-2 BIA/Tribal Hotshot Crews APPENDIX 7-3 FFT1 and FFT2 Required Training and Experience RELEASE JANUARY 2011 v

9 TABLE OF CONTENTS BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS Chapter 8 Aviation Operations A. Introduction B. Roles and Responsibilities Aviation Management Directorate National Office Level Regional Office Level Agency/Field Office Level C. Aviation Information Resources Reference Materials D. Aviation Safety Aviation Safety Assistance Aviation Watch Out Situations Mission Planning/Hazard Mitigation Aircraft and Pilot Carding Use of Military or National Guard aircraft and pilots Aviation Safety Briefing Low-level Flight and Congested Area Operations E. Aviation Hazards Definition Aerial Hazards F. Aircraft Incident/Accidents Incidents SAFECOM - Incident/Hazard/ Maintenance Deficiency Reporting Accidents G. Air Operations Interagency Interim Flight and Duty Limitations Helicopter Operations Helitack H. Air Tankers Air tanker Base Personnel Air tanker Categories Qualifications Tanker Bases & Reload Facilities Air tanker Base Operations Canadian Air tankers I. Single Engine Air tanker (SEAT) Operations, Procedures and Safety SEAT Manager Position Operational Procedures Communications J. Leadplane Operations Policy Operating Practices Operational Considerations vi RELEASE JANUARY 2011

10 BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter 8 continued Aviation Operations K. Air Tactical Operations Policy Organization Operational Considerations Airspace Coordination L. Flight Management/Flight Following Policy Types of Flights Fire & Fire Support End Product Flights Flight Manager Responsibilities for Fixed-wing Aircraft Point-to-point Flights Tactical/Special Use Flights - Fixed Wing Tactical/Special Use Flights - Helicopters APPENDIX 8-1 SAFECOM APPENDIX 8-2 BIA Exclusive Use Helicopter Module Positions Chapter 9 Safety and Risk Management A. Introduction B. Policy C. Guiding Principles D. Goal E. Risk Management Process F. Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) G. Work/Rest Assignment Definition Length of Assignment Days Off Assignment Extension Single Resource/Kind Extensions Incident Management Team Extensions Management Directed Days Off at Home Unit H. Motor Vehicle Operation Policy Policy Driver Qualifications Roles & Responsibilities of Supervisors Terminate driving privileges for a Motor Vehicle Operator who is: Motor Vehicle Operator Requirements Incident Driving Operations Casuals hired as drivers when employed by BIA I. Wildland Fire Field Attire RELEASE JANUARY 2011 vii

11 TABLE OF CONTENTS BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS Chapter 9 continued Safety and Risk Management J. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Policy Required PPE Fire Shelters Head Protection Eye and Face Protection Hearing Protection Neck Protection Leg Protection Respiratory Protection Specialized or Non Standard Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) High Visibility Vests K. Fireline Safety Incident Briefings Incident Safety Oversight Incident Emergency Management Planning Air Ambulance Services Location of Fire Camps and Plans to Remain in Place Incident Communications Frequency Management LCES A System for Operational Safety Standard Safety Flagging Six Minutes for Safety Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) Hazardous Materials Emergency Non-Wildland Fire Response-Hazardous Materials: Emergency Non-Wildland Fire Response-Emergency Medical Response: Roadside Response: Responding to Wildland Fires in or near Oil and Gas Operations: Responding to Wildland Fires in or Near Radioactive Locations Hydrogen Cyanide (HCN) Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Safety for Non-Operational Personnel Visiting Fires Visits to the Fireline Helicopter Observation Flights Fixed-Wing Observation Flights L. SAFENET M. Required Treatment for Burn Injuries Burn Injury Criteria Accident/Injury Reporting N. Critical Incident Management viii RELEASE JANUARY 2011

12 BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter 10 Business Management and Administration A. Policy B. Management of Human Resources Recruitment C. Pay Provisions Overtime Pay Hazard Pay Coding of Time for Fire Management Personnel Time Coding of Time for Non-Fire Management Personnel D. Personnel Timekeeping/Recording Timekeeping/Recording Objective E. Commissary Purpose Posting Commissary Issues F. Travel Responsibility Travel Authorization and Vouchers Government Integrated Charge Cards G. Acquisitions Authority Acquisition Methods Contracting Officer/Purchasing Agent/Buying Team Member H. Convenience Checks For Emergency Incident Support Procedure I. Emergency Equipment Rental Agreements Procedure J. Centralized Emergency Firefighter Payment Center Authority Policy Regional Points of Contacts Regional and Agency Responsibilities K. All Hazard Incidents Authority Policy Pay Provisions Cooperative Relations Appendix 10-1 Motor Vehicle Operator s License and Driving Record RELEASE JANUARY 2011 ix

13 TABLE OF CONTENTS BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS Chapter 11 Incident Organization, Management and Operations A. Introduction National Response Framework The National Interagency Incident Management System (NIIMS) Incident Command System (ICS) B. Incident Organization Incident Command C. Types of Incidents Type 5 Incidents Type 4 Incidents Type 3 Incidents Type 2 Incidents Type 1 Incidents Unified Command Area Command D. Managing the Incident Agency Administrator's Responsibilities to the Incident Management Team The Agency Administrator Representative Responsibilities Resource Advisor Responsibilities Resource Advisor and Agency Administrator Representative Trainees E. Incoming Team Transition/Transfer of Command Transfer of Command Responsibilities Agency Administrator Briefing Local Agency Incident Commander Briefing Assuming Command of an Incident by an IMT F. Incident Management Considerations Incident Business Management Cost Containment Large Fire Cost Reviews When a written Incident Action Plan is required, suggested components may include The Incident Status Summary (ICS-209) Large fires FLAME Fund Act G. Release of Incident Management Teams From an Incident Process to Release an IMT from an Incident Incident Management Team Evaluation H. Coordination and Support Organizations Initial Action Dispatch Expanded Dispatch Buying Teams Administrative Payment Teams Multi-Agency Coordination Groups: x RELEASE JANUARY 2011

14 BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter 11 continued Incident Organization, Management and Operations APPENDIX 11-1 Agency Administrator s Briefing to Incident Management Team APPENDIX 11-2 Wildfire Delegation of Authority (Example) APPENDIX 11-3 Incident Commander Briefing APPENDIX 11-4 Incident Team Evaluation APPENDIX 11-5 Administrative Payment Team Delegation of Authority (Example) Chapter 12 Developing a Response to Wildfires A. Introduction B. Purpose Fire Management Planning (FMP) Process and Requirements Strategic and Operational Elements FMP Updates C. Policy Planning D. Concepts and Definitions Land/Resource Management Plan Fire Management Plan (FMP) Fire Management Unit Wildland Fire E. Annual Operating Plan and General Elements Mutual Aid Command Structure Communications Distance/Boundaries Time/Duration Qualifications/Minimum Requirements Reimbursement/Compensation Cooperation Agency Review and Investigations Dispatch Center Fiscal Responsibility Elements that should be addressed in an AOP Preplanned response to an incident Emergency Operations (Fire/Non-fire) Local Agreements should be maintained on file and reviewed annually with the respective cooperators Communications Weather Fire Danger Briefings Preparedness Levels Aviation Dispatch Center Staffing Plan Expanded Dispatch Plan RELEASE JANUARY 2011 xi

15 TABLE OF CONTENTS BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS Chapter 12 continued Developing a Response to Wildfires 23. Administrative Accident/Incident Medical Plan Media Plan F. Responding to Wildfires Definitions Initial Attack Operations G. Extended Attack Operations Definition Organization Wildfire Complexity Analysis (WCA) Organizational Needs Analysis H. Wildland Fire Situation Analysis (WFSA) I. Wildland Fire Decision Support System (WFDSS) WFDSS is designed to: WFDSS Standard or Custom Reports Clarification of Expectations J. Large Fire Operations Definitions Large Fire Long Term/Duration Fire FLAME ACT K. Wildland Urban Interface Firefighting Introduction Policy L. Fuels Management and Hazardous Fuels Program Planning and Implementation Prescribed Fire or Wildfire for Resource Benefit Objectives Approvals at Planning Levels 4 and APPENDIX 12-1 Operational Briefing Checklist APPENDIX 12-2 Spot Weather Forecast Request APPENDIX 12-3 Delegation of Authority: Type 3, 4 & 5 Incidents Chapter 13 Training and Qualifications A. Introduction B. Policy Director, Branch of Fire Management Regional Directors Agency Superintendents and Line Officers of Tribal Fire Programs C. Incident Qualifications and Certification System (IQCS) Certification of Non-Agency Personnel Incident Qualification Card Incident Qualification Card Expiration Dates D. Universal Training Requirements E. Annual Fireline Safety Refresher Training xii RELEASE JANUARY 2011

16 BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter 13 continued Training and Qualifications F. Position Certification and Currency Certifying Officials or certification committees will: Loss of Currency Recertification Considerations Non-NWCG Agency Personnel Qualifications Non-NWCG Agency Personnel Use on Prescribed Fire G. Physical Fitness H. Medical Examinations Department of Interior Wildland Firefighter Medical Standards Program (DOI/MSP) Medical Examination Process for Light and Moderate Work Capacity Test Applicants Health Screen Questionnaire (HSQ) I. Work Capacity Testing WCT Categories WCT Administration WCT Retesting J. Training Management Training Needs Analysis Individual Development Plans Position Task Books Training Plans Training Nomination Process Instructor Qualifications Course Coordination K. Course Equivalencies Leadership Training Prevention Training L. BIA Certified Positions Prescribed Fire Burn Boss 3 (RXB3) Interagency Hotshot Superintendent Assistant Interagency Hotshot Superintendent Sawyer/Faller Qualifications Emergency Firefighter (AD) Chainsaw Operators M. BIA Required Training N. Funding for Training General Schedule and Tribal Contract/Compact Fire Employees AD/EFF Hires APPENDIX 13-1 BIA Medical Examination Requirement RELEASE JANUARY 2011 xiii

17 TABLE OF CONTENTS BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS Chapter 14 Financial Management A. Introduction B. Program Budget Annual Appropriations Budget Officer Fiscal Year 2011 Accounting Structure C. Project Cost Accounting Procedures The originating and approving sections at the BIA-NIFC are: Cost Accounting Tables D. One-Time Funding Purpose of Subsidiary Program Procedure For Requesting One-Time Funding APPENDIX 14-1 Wildland Fire Management Appropriation Fiscal Year 2011 Accounting Structure APPENDIX 14-2 Wildland Fire Management Appropriation Project Cost Accounting Sub-system Character Designations APPENDIX 14-3 Procedures for One-Time Funding Submission Chapter 15 Emergency Stabilization (ES) and Burned Area Rehabilitation (BAR) Programs A. Introduction Policy ES and BAR Plans Approvals Funding Time Frames B. BAER Coordinators National BAER Coordinator Tri-Regional BAER Coordinator Regional Coordinators Implementation Leader C. Emergency Stabilization/Burned Area Rehabilitation Process Perform a Preliminary Complexity Analysis of the post-fire effects Assemble the ES/BAR Planning Team Review Resource and Fire Data Begin Assessment of Post-Fire Effects Write an ES and/or BAR Plan Select an Implementation Leader Implement ES and BAR Plan Treatment Specifications Monitor and Assess the Treatments/Activities Specifications Implemented Submit Monitoring, Annual, and Final Accomplishment Reports D. ES Allowable/Prohibited Actions Cultural Resources Non-Native Invasive Control Revegetation xiv RELEASE JANUARY 2011

18 BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter 15 continued Emergency Stabilization (ES) and Burned Area Rehabilitation (BAR) Programs E. Burned Area Rehabilitation (BAR) Allowable Actions Prohibited Actions F. BAER Teams National Teams Regional/Local Teams G. Training H. Process for Requesting Funds Project Funding Process I. Monitoring and Evaluation Responsibility Report Requirements J. Information Sharing National BAER Coordinator s Responsibility Web Site Chapter 16 Rural Fire Assistance/Ready Reserve Programs A. Rural Fire Assistance Policy Program Purpose National Rural Fire Assistance Leads Program Administration Eligibility Criteria Evaluation Criteria Property Acquisition and Management Program Funding Program Account Structure Reporting of Annual Program Accomplishments RFA Program Monitoring and Accountability B. Ready Reserve Policy Criteria For Rural Fire Departments To Participate Implementation Administration Procedures Reporting Requirements RELEASE JANUARY 2011 xv

19 TABLE OF CONTENTS BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS Chapter 17 Tribal Contracts/Compacts A. Introduction B. Fire Management Administration Guiding Principles Inherently Federal Activities Wildland Fire Management Funding Program Operational Standards Indirect Cost Minimum Provisions for Contract and Annual Funding Agreements Chapter 18 Reviews and Investigations A. Introduction Multiagency Cooperation Federal Interagency Investigations B. Policy C. Reviews Review Types and Requirements Preparedness Reviews After Action Review (AAR) Fire and Aviation Safety Team Reviews (FAST) Aviation Safety and Technical Assistance Team Review (ASTAT) Large Fire Cost Reviews Individual Fire Review Lessons Learned Review (LLR) Escaped Prescribed Fire Review Investigation Types and Requirements Investigations D. Processes Common to Serious and Non-Serious Wildland Fire Investigations Site Protection Management of Involved Personnel Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) Hour-Preliminary Report Hour Expanded Report Serious Accident Investigation (SAI) Process E. Serious Accident Investigation Team Composition Team Leader (Core Team Member) Chief Investigator (Core Team Member) Accident Investigation Advisor/Safety Manager (Core Team Member) Interagency Representative Technical Specialists Public Affairs Officer Documentation Specialist/Writer Editor The Final Report xvi RELEASE JANUARY 2011

20 BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter 18 continued Reviews and Investigations 9. Factual Report Management Evaluation Report (MER) F. Investigation Report Standard Format Executive Summary Narrative Investigation Process Findings Discussion Recommendations Conclusions and Observations Maps/Photographs/Illustrations Appendices Records Board of Review G. Wildland Fire Non-Serious Accident Investigation Process Notification Investigation Team Membership Final Report H. Non-Serious Accident Investigation Report Standard Format Executive Summary Narrative: Investigation Process Findings Discussion Recommendations Conclusions and Observations Maps/Photographs/Illustrations Appendices Records I. Wildland Fire Trespass Policy Professional Liability Insurance RELEASE JANUARY 2011 xvii

21 TABLE OF CONTENTS BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS Chapter 19 Suppression Chemicals and Delivery Systems A. Introduction B. Types of Fire Chemicals Long-Term Retardant Fire Suppressant Foam Wet Water Water Enhancer (Gel) C. Safety Information Personnel Safety Aerial Application Safety D. Policy for Delivery of Wildland Fire Chemicals near Waterways Exceptions Definition of Waterway Guidance for Pilots Reporting Requirements of Wildland Fire Chemicals into Waterways E. Endangered Species Act (ESA) Emergency Consultation xviii RELEASE JANUARY 2011

22 Chapter 1 BIA Wildland Fire and Aviation Program Organization and Responsibilities A. Introduction This guide is intended to be a program reference guide that documents the standards for operations and fire business practices of the Bureau of Indian Affairs (the Bureau), Wildland Fire Management Program. These standards and practices are based on policy and provide program guidance to ensure safe, consistent, efficient and effective wildland fire and aviation operations. For more information, see B. Wildland Fire Management Organization The Bureau s Branch of Wildland Fire Management consists of a Director (Branch of Wildland Fire Management), Deputy Director, Assistant Directors for Fire Operations, Fuels, Planning, Training and an Aviation Program Manager. The Organization Chart is show in Appendix 1-1. C. Oversight Responsibilities 1. Director, Branch of Wildland Fire Management The Director, Branch of Wildland Fire Management, is also identified by the title Fire Director, Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC). a. Develops policies and standards for firefighting safety and training, and for the prevention, suppression and use of wildland fires on Indian trust lands. b. Provides guidance to regional directors on the use of wildland fire policy, prescribed fire and fuels management to achieve hazardous fuel reduction and resource management objectives. c. Integrates wildland fire procedures into natural resource management. d. Establishes position competencies, standards and minimum qualifications for fire management officers, wildland fire specialists and leaders based on federal interagency standards recommended by the National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG). RELEASE JANUARY

23 PROGRAM ORG & RESPONSIBILITIES BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS e. Implements the interagency Fire Program Analysis (FPA) process and develops procedures and standards for the distribution of program resources. f. Reviews and evaluates regional Wildland Fire Management (WFM) programs. g. Represents the Bureau in the coordination of overall wildland fire management activities at NIFC and on intra- and interagency wildland fire committees, groups and working teams. h. In conjunction with other National Directors, establishes priorities for assignment of critical resources during wildfire emergencies. i. Serves as the BIA representative on the NWCG, Executive Board. j. Initiates or participates in Boards of Review concerning actions taken on selected wildland fires. k. Negotiates agreements and/or modifications of existing national agreements to improve wildland fire management activities on Indian trust lands. l. Reviews funding requests for hazardous fuel reduction, wildland fire prevention, community assistance, fire facilities and deferred maintenance construction, and rehabilitation requests. Makes determinations on funding levels and recommends approval to the Deputy Bureau Director, Trust Services, based on guiding principles in the Federal Fire Policy, National Fire Plan (NFP), Cohesive Strategy (CS), supporting documents and Secretarial directives. m. Determines and approves funding levels for severity and emergency stabilization requests. 2. Deputy Director, Branch of Wildland Fire Management a. Shares all the responsibilities and duties of and serves as ex-officio to the Director, Branch of Wildland Fire Management. b. Provides oversight and direction to the Branch s Administrative, Budget, Information Technology (IT), and Public Affairs sections. c. Serves as liaison between the Branch and the Office of the Chief Information Officer-Indian Affairs (OCIO-IA) for all IT support issues. 1-2 RELEASE DATE JANUARY 2011

24 BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS PROGRAM ORG & RESPONSIBILITIES 3. Assistant Director, Fire Operations a. Oversees administration and coordination of the following Bureau's programs: preparedness, Model 52 Engine, hotshot, emergency firefighter (EFF), rural fire assistance, ready reserve, fire facility construction and deferred maintenance, suppression, severity, emergency stabilization (ES) and burn area rehabilitation (BAR). b. Develops policies in collaboration with Federal and State cooperators relating to wildland fire operations in Indian country. Provides specialized staff assistance to Departmental and Bureau officials. c. Represents the Bureau on issues related to interagency fire operations nationally. 4. Associate Director, Fire Use & Fuels Management a. Responsible for the development and coordination of the Bureau s prescribed fire, fuels management, and fire prevention annual program and recommends the distribution of program funds to Regions. b. Tracks all fuels management fund distributions and prior year carryover funds. Develops and maintains a national database for fuels management accomplishments in Indian Country. c. Analyzes hazards and risks in the wildland urban interface using fuel modification or reduction techniques and develops and makes recommendations for Bureau-wide application. Examines and analyzes laws and regulations pertaining to prescribed fire use/fuels management in the wildland urban interface, and works with top level representatives of Tribes, states and rural fire districts to recommend policy which will achieve uniformity. RELEASE DATE JANUARY

25 PROGRAM ORG & RESPONSIBILITIES BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS 5. Assistant Director, Planning a. Responsible for the development and implementation of the Bureau-wide fire planning program. Provides guidance and assistance in administering the technical and operational aspects of the Bureau's fire planning program at the Regional and Agency/Tribal levels for the accurate identification of program funding needs. b. Serves as Bureau s primary subject matter expert on the following: Fire Planning Reference, Elements, Procedures (Fire PREP), Wildland Fire Management Information (WFMI) System, Weather Information Management System (WIMS), Wildland Fire Decision Support System (WFDSS), Fire Danger Rating System program, Remote Automated Weather Systems (RAWS) and related support systems, and provides user training in those applications. 6. Assistant Director, Training a. Responsible for developing, coordinating, and implementing wildland fire training programs. Formulates procedures and instructions for conducting training need analysis and usage of training materials. b. Develops long range plans for what the training and development structure, organization, direction, policies, programs, services and practices will be to accomplish the mission. c. Is a member of NWCG Operations and Workforce Development Committee and the Interagency Aviation Training Advisory Group on matters concerning job analysis, curriculum needs, and succession planning and development. 1-4 RELEASE DATE JANUARY 2011

26 BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS PROGRAM ORG & RESPONSIBILITIES 7. Aviation Program Manager a. Recommends and develops policy standards and procedures for the management and operation of the Bureau's wildland fire aviation support activities. b. Plans and executes analysis of scientific, technological, and economic factors pertaining to aircraft and personnel performance to ensure proper selection to fulfill specific or "special use" missions. c. Interprets Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and departmental policies. Prepares guidance and procedural manuals for Bureau aviation operations. d. Serves as the Bureau's authority on aviation technical and economic matters, practices, and techniques. Provides consultation and assistance to Office of Justice Services, and Deputy Bureau Director of Trust Services in aircraft operating procedures, pilot and aircraft certification programs, and air operations safety and training programs. e. Represents the Deputy Bureau Director, Trust Services, in meetings, conferences, and negotiations with other Federal and State agencies and with non-governmental organizations such as aircraft and equipment manufacturers. Serves as the Bureau representative on the Aviation Board of Directors Working Group (ABOD). f. Plans and executes specialized aviation programs to include aircraft acquisition and safety, training, and maintenance. Assures certification of pilots and aircraft for Bureau use. g. Manages specialists to provide services in aviation flight activities, safety, training, data analysis, aviation budgets, and program coordination. h. Participates in or leads safety inspections and evaluations of Region/Agency aviation organizations, standards and procedures and operational activities for compliance with Federal Acquisition Regulations, Office of Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and other federal regulations, Departmental and agency rules, policies, and required effectiveness and economy. Has full authority to instantly curtail any Bureau aviation activity observed to be in violation of directives or operating in an unsafe manner endangering lives and/or equipment, and presenting an unnecessary hazard to the safety of personnel involved. RELEASE DATE JANUARY

27 APPENDIX 1-1 Bureau of Indian Affairs Wildland Fire and Aviation Management Organization Chart Deputy Bureau Director, Trust Services Chief, Division of Forestry Director, Branch of Fire Management Deputy Director Associate Director, Fire Use & Fuels Management Assistant Director, Fire Operations Assistant Director, Planning Assistant Director, Training Aviation Program Manager Assistant Director, Resouce Protection RELEASE JANUARY

28 A. Introduction Chapter 2 Policy, Leadership and Guidance The following policies are endorsed by the departmental Secretaries of Agriculture and Interior to provide consistent fire management practices among federal Wildland Fire Management (WFM) agencies. The statutes which authorize and provide the means for managing wildland fire on or threaten lands under the jurisdiction of the DOI are identified in the Department Manual, Part 620. The information within this chapter describes the general types of wildland fire and respective standards and qualifications. B. Federal Wildland Fire Policy In 2001, an update of the 1995 Federal Fire Policy was completed and approved by the Secretaries of the Interior and Agriculture. On April 21, 2004 the Secretaries approved the Interagency Strategy for the Implementation of the Federal Wildland Fire Policy. On May 2, 2008, the Wildland Fire Leadership Council (WFLC) issued a memorandum entitled Modification of Federal Wildland Fire Policy Guidance. The document modified policy statements made in the 2004 strategy document. As directed by the WFLC, the modifications were tested in a number of field units in the 2008 fire season and then incorporated into this document. In 2009, The National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) issued a memorandum to the NWCG that 1) affirms the soundness of the Review and Update of the 1995 Federal Wildland Fire Management Policy (January 2001), 2) reiterates the policy changes stated in the May 2, 2008 WFLC memorandum entitled Modification of Federal Wildland Fire Policy Guidance, 3) states that the Wildland Fire Decision Support System (WFDSS) will replace existing analysis and decision processes, and 4) confirms that the Interagency Strategy for the Implementation of Federal Wildland Fire Management Policy (June 20, 2003) is replaced by the Guidance for Implementation of Federal Wildland Fire Management Policy (February, 2009). This guidance also calls for the increased dialogue and collaboration between federal agencies and tribal, local, and state entities as plans are updated and implemented to manage wildfires in order to accomplish resource and protection objectives. RELEASE JANUARY

29 POLICY, LEADERSHIP AND GUIDANCE BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS 1. Guiding Principles a. Firefighter and public safety is the first priority in every fire management activity. b. The role of wildland fire as an essential ecological process and natural change agent will be incorporated into the planning process. Federal agency land and resource management plans set the objectives for the use and desired future condition of the various public lands. c. Fire Management Plans, programs, and activities support land and resource management plans and their implementation. d. Sound risk management is a foundation for all fire management activities. Risks and uncertainties relating to fire management activities must be understood, analyzed, communicated, and managed as they relate to the cost of either doing or not doing an activity. Net gains to the public benefit will be an important component of decisions. e. Fire management programs and activities are economically viable, based upon values to be protected, costs, and land and resource management objectives. Federal agency administrators are adjusting and reorganizing programs to reduce costs and increase efficiencies. As part of this process, investments in fire management activities must be evaluated against other agency programs in order to effectively accomplish the overall mission, set short and long-term priorities, and clarify management accountability. f. Fire management plans and activities are based upon the best available science. Knowledge and experience are developed among all federal wildland fire management agencies. An active fire research program combined with interagency collaboration provides the means to make these tools available to all fire managers. g. Fire Management Plans and activities incorporate public health and environmental quality considerations. 2-2 RELEASE DATE JANUARY 2011

30 BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS POLICY, LEADERSHIP AND GUIDANCE h. Federal, State, tribal, local, interagency, and international coordination and cooperation are essential. Increasing costs and smaller work forces require that public agencies pool their human resources to successfully deal with the ever-increasing and more complex fire management tasks. Full collaboration among federal wildland fire management agencies; and between international, State, tribal, and local governments and private entities result in a mobile fire management work force available for the full range of public needs. i. Standardization of policies and procedures among federal wildland fire management agencies is an ongoing objective. Consistency of plans and operations provides the fundamental platform upon which federal wildland fire management agencies can cooperate, integrate fire activities across agency boundaries, and provide leadership for cooperation with State, tribal, and local fire management organizations. 2. Federal Wildland Fire Management Policy a. Safety Firefighter and public safety is the first priority. All Fire management plans and activities must reflect this commitment. b. Fire Management and Ecosystem Sustainability The full range of fire management activities will be used to help achieve ecosystem sustainability, including its interrelated ecological, economic, and social components c. Response to Wildland Fire Fire, as a critical natural process, will be integrated into land and resource management plans. Then is applied on a landscape scale, and across agency boundaries as available. Response to wildland fires is based on ecological, social and legal consequences of the fire. The circumstances under which a fire occurs, and the likely consequences on firefighter and public safety and welfare, natural and cultural resources, and, values to be protected, dictate the appropriate response to a fire. RELEASE DATE JANUARY

31 POLICY, LEADERSHIP AND GUIDANCE BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS d. Use of Wildland Fire Wildland fire will be used to protect, maintain, and enhance resources and, as nearly as possible, be allowed to function in its natural ecological role. Use of fire will be based on land and resource management plans. Associated fire management plans and will follow specific prescriptions contained in operational plans. e. Emergency Stabilization and Rehabilitation Emergency stabilization and rehabilitation efforts will be undertaken to protect and sustain ecosystems, public health, safety, and to help communities protect infrastructure. f. Protection Priorities The protection of human life is the single, overriding priority. Setting priorities among protecting human communities and community infrastructure, other property and improvements, and natural and cultural resources will be done based on the values at risk, human health and safety, and the costs of protection. Once people have been committed to an incident, human resources become the highest value to be protected. g. Wildland Urban Interface The operational roles of federal agencies as partners in the wildland urban interface are wildland firefighting, hazard fuels reduction, cooperative prevention and education, and technical assistance. Structural fire suppression is the responsibility of tribal, State, or local governments. Federal agencies may assist with exterior structural protection activities under formal fire protection agreements that specify the mutual responsibilities of the partners, including funding. (Some Federal agencies have full structural protection authority for their facilities on lands they administer and may also enter into formal agreements to assist State and local governments with full structural protection.) h. Planning Fire management plans must provide for firefighter and public safety; include fire management strategies; tactics; and alternatives. They should address values to be protected and public health issues. They must be consistent with resource management objectives, activities of the area, and environmental laws and regulations. 2-4 RELEASE DATE JANUARY 2011

32 BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS POLICY, LEADERSHIP AND GUIDANCE i. Science Fire management plans and programs will be based on a foundation of sound science. Research will support ongoing efforts to increase our scientific knowledge of biological, physical, and sociological factors. Information needed to support fire management will be developed through an integrated interagency fire science program. Scientific results must be made available to managers in a timely manner and must be used in the development of land management plans, fire management plans, and implementation plans. j. Preparedness Interior agencies will ensure their capability to provide safe, costeffective programs in support of land and resource management plans through appropriate planning, staffing, training, equipment, and management oversight. k. Suppression Fires are suppressed at minimum cost, considering firefighter and public safety, benefits, and values to be protected, consistent with resource objectives. l. Prevention Interior agencies will work together and with their partners and other affected groups and individuals to prevent unauthorized ignition of wildland fires. m. Standardization Interior agencies will use compatible planning processes, funding mechanisms, training and qualification requirements, operational procedures, values-to-be- protected methodologies, and public education programs for all fire management activities. n. Interagency Cooperation Fire management planning, preparedness, prevention, suppression, fire use, restoration and rehabilitation, monitoring, research, and education will be conducted on an interagency basis with the involvement of cooperators and partners. RELEASE DATE JANUARY

33 POLICY, LEADERSHIP AND GUIDANCE BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS o. Communication and Education Interior agencies will enhance knowledge and understanding of wildland fire management policies and practices through internal and external communication and education programs. These programs will be continuously improved through the timely and effective exchange of information among all affected agencies and organizations. p. Agency Administrator and Employee Roles Agency administrators will ensure that their employees are trained, certified and made available to participate in the wildland fire program locally, regionally, and nationally as the situation demands. Employees with operational, administrative, or other skills will support the wildland fire program as necessary. Agency administrators are responsible and will be held accountable for making employees available. q. Evaluation Interior agencies will develop and implement a systematic method of evaluation to determine effectiveness of projects through implementation of the 2001 and subsequent Federal Fire Policy revisions. The evaluation will assure accountability, facilitate resolution of areas of conflict, and identify resource shortages and agency priorities. 3. Guidance for Implementation of the Federal Wildland Fire Management Policy The following guidelines should be used to provide consistent implementation of Federal Wildland Fire Policy. a. Wildland fire management agencies will use common standards for all aspects of their fire management programs to facilitate effective collaboration among cooperating agencies. b. Agencies and bureaus will review, update, and develop agreements that clarify the jurisdictional inter-relationships and define the roles and responsibilities among local, state, trial and federal fire protection entities. c. Responses to wildland fire will be coordinated across levels of government regardless of the jurisdiction at the ignition source. 2-6 RELEASE DATE JANUARY 2011