David Brownell, a Forestry & Natural Resource Specialist based outside Ashland, Oregon, is encouraging people to view wildfire prevention as a shared responsibility rather than something left solely to firefighters and land management agencies.
Drawing on years of experience in wildfire response, forest restoration, watershed protection, and conservation, Brownell believes that small, consistent actions by individuals can make communities more resilient before fire season begins.
“I realized I’d rather prevent damage than react to it,” Brownell said. “If we can reduce risk before a fire starts, that’s a win for everybody.”
Brownell’s message comes as wildfire seasons continue to challenge communities across the western United States. According to the National Interagency Fire Center, nearly 65,000 wildfires burned more than 8.9 million acres across the United States in 2024. Oregon also experienced one of its largest wildfire seasons on record, with approximately 1.9 million acres burned.
Those numbers reinforce what Brownell has witnessed throughout his career.
“We were doing our jobs,” Brownell said, reflecting on his years serving on a wildfire crew. “When people need help, you help them. That’s really all there is to it.”
Today, Brownell focuses on preventing disasters before they happen through forest management, conservation projects, and long-term restoration efforts. He believes healthy forests depend not only on professional land managers but also on informed residents who understand the role they play.
“Healthy forests benefit everyone,” Brownell said. “The work we’re doing today affects future generations. That’s what keeps it meaningful.”
Research from the National Fire Protection Association shows that creating and maintaining defensible space around homes can significantly improve a structure’s chance of surviving a wildfire. The U.S. Forest Service also continues to emphasize proactive forest management and fuel reduction as key strategies for reducing catastrophic wildfire risk.
For Brownell, preparation begins with awareness.
“You don’t have to be an expert to care about the forest,” he said. “You just have to pay attention, learn about your surroundings, and take responsibility for the part you can control.”
Beyond his professional work, Brownell volunteers through outdoor safety programs and helps young people find opportunities in conservation work. He believes stewardship begins with education and grows through everyday habits.
“A lot of young people just need someone to believe in them,” Brownell said. “Sometimes one opportunity can change the direction of a person’s life.”
Brownell also encourages neighbors to look out for one another before, during, and after wildfire season.
“Small acts of kindness aren’t small to the people receiving them,” he said. “Communities become stronger when people are willing to help without being asked.”
What You Can Do Today
Brownell encourages individuals to take simple steps that support wildfire preparedness and forest health:
Learn about wildfire risk in your local area.
Follow local burn restrictions and fire safety guidance.
Create and maintain defensible space around your home where appropriate.
Volunteer with local conservation or community cleanup projects.
Teach children and young adults about outdoor safety and responsible recreation.
Stay informed through trusted forestry and emergency management agencies.
Check on neighbors, especially older adults, during wildfire emergencies.
“Nature teaches patience,” Brownell said. “It teaches respect. It teaches you that you’re part of something bigger than yourself. When we all do our part, we leave something better for the next generation.”
To read the full interview, visit the website here.
About Wildfire Prevention
Wildfire prevention is a year-round effort focused on reducing the risk and impact of destructive fires through education, responsible land stewardship, forest management, and community preparedness. By combining proactive planning with everyday actions, individuals can help protect lives, property, wildlife habitats, and natural resources while building more resilient communities.
Contact:
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Media ContactCompany Name: David BrownellContact Person: David BrownellEmail: Send EmailCountry: United StatesWebsite: david-brownell.com
