Dynamic Planning + Science partnered with the City of Benicia to develop the Vegetative Fuels Management Plan (VFMP), a long-term strategy to mitigate wildfire risk in the city’s extensive Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) areas. The plan utilizes advanced analysis of vegetative and topographic data to guide adaptive and site-specific vegetation management practices. Through innovative approaches like prescribed herbivory and manual fuel reduction, the VFMP enhances community resilience while aligning with regional wildfire mitigation efforts and environmental sustainability goals. This plan equips the City of Benicia’s Fire Department with tools to prioritize resources, reduce wildfire hazards, and safeguard the natural beauty and safety of the community.
- Site-Specific Vegetation Management: Introduced tailored fuel reduction strategies, replacing the previous “one size fits all” approach.
- Innovative Techniques: Evaluated methods such as livestock grazing, herbicide application, and manual fuel removal for effectiveness and sustainability.
- Risk Assessment: Conducted analysis of fire hazards using advanced remote sensing to identify and address high-risk areas.
- Community Engagement: Integrated input from over 350 residents through surveys to align strategies with community priorities.
- Regional Consistency: Aligned with local and state wildfire mitigation plans, including the Solano County Hazard Mitigation Plan and CAL FIRE’s Strategic Fire Plan.
- Decision-Making Framework: Provided a Vegetation Management Playbook to guide adaptive, long-range planning and resource allocation.
