Month: November 2013

How Healthy Are Our Forests?

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Each year, the Report on the Health of Colorado’s Forests provides information to the Colorado General Assembly and citizens of Colorado about the health and condition of forests across the state.  In addition to providing a comprehensive overview of the current health of Colorado’s forests, this year’s report also includes sidebars that highlight the ongoing management and stewardship of our forests.  These forest management actions help sustain production of wood and non-timber products, support Colorado communities and economies, and ensure the health and diversity of Colorado’s forests for current and future generations.

 

Read the full 2012 Report on the Health of Colorado’s Forests

Wildfire Insurance & Forest Health Task Force Report

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Governor John Hickenlooper created the Task Force on Wildfire Insurance and Forest Health through Executive Order B 2013-002. The group was asked to identify and reach agreement on ways to encourage activities, practices and policies that would reduce the risk of loss in wildland-urban interface (WUI) areas and provide greater customer choice and knowledge of insurance options.

Take a look at the full report.

 

Recommendations Include:

  • Update Colorado Wildfire Risk Assessment Portal (CO-WRAP) to identify and quantify risk to specific properties in the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI)
  • Disclose CO-WRAP scores to stakeholders
  • Amend standard real-estate contract form to include disclosure of CO-WRAP score
  • Create process for appeals/updates of CO-WRAP scores
  • Require Wildfire Mitigation Audits for high risk homes
  • Develop and disseminate uniform Best Management Practices (BMPs)
  • Implement state-wide model ordinance
  • Prohibit inconsistent community building or land use requirements
  • Create pilot program for prescribed burns
  • Assess a fee on properties in the WUI
  • Continue and enhance state grant funding
  • Increase awareness of financial assistance and technical support
  • Disseminate information about HB 13-1225

 

Task Force Recommendations – Implications for Homeowners in the WUI:

Obligations

  • Obtain CO-WRAP score and Wildfire Mitigation Audit (if high risk)
  • Comply with building and land use codes
  • Pay property fee

Incentives for Mitigation

  • State funding for mitigation
  • Tax incentives
  • Desire to lower insurance premiums and avoid Wildfire Mitigation Audit

Available Information

  • Uniform best management practices
  • Existing resources and funding options
  • Homeowners Insurance Reform Act (HB 13-1225)