SWCA Celebrates Milestone with 100th Community Wildfire Protection Plan in Whitefish

SWCA Launches 100th Community Wildfire Protection Plan in Whitefish

SWCA Environmental Consultants, a leader in environmental consulting, has proudly begun work on its 100th Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) in the picturesque City of Whitefish, Montana. This venture marks an important milestone not just for the firm, but also signifies their long and dedicated history in wildfire risk management across the United States.

A Competitive Selection Process

In October 2025, the City of Whitefish initiated a formal request for proposals to develop a CWPP, inviting submissions from eight qualified firms. After thorough evaluations and interviews, SWCA was handpicked for its extensive experience, skilled team members, and familiarity with the area and its unique wildfire risks, all while providing a competitive budget. The City had set aside $100,000 for this project, and SWCA's proposal came in at $88,000, highlighting their commitment to providing cost-effective solutions.

Project Details and Timeline

The project is set to kick off shortly, with an expected completion date in August 2026. SWCA will work closely with the City of Whitefish, local fire departments, and community stakeholders throughout the planning process. One crucial aspect of this collaboration includes community workshops and public review sessions, allowing residents to actively participate and voice their opinions on the draft plan. These engagements are designed to ensure that the plan is not only comprehensive but also reflective of community needs.

Commitment to Wildfire Preparedness

Victoria Amato, Principal Planner of Fire and Forestry at SWCA, emphasized the significance of reaching this milestone in an area as vulnerable as Whitefish. She stated, "Achieving our 100th Community Wildfire Protection Plan for a community facing wildfires is a testament to our commitment to advancing science-based strategies for wildfire mitigation. Our goal is to enhance community resilience in the wake of increasingly severe wildfire threats."

SWCA's Notable Achievements

The journey leading to this 100th CWPP is impressive. SWCA has been actively involved in community wildfire planning for over twenty years, strengthening wildfire resilience across 19 states and 95 counties. Their portfolio includes 21 CWPP updates and implementation projects, showcasing an ongoing relationship with communities and a focus on sustainable solutions. Furthermore, this is the third CWPP they have developed for Montana, underscoring their localized expertise and dedication to addressing the area's specific needs.

Why This Matters

The Healthy Forest Restoration Act established a framework for local governments to tackle escalating wildfire risks in 2004. SWCA's work directly aligns with this directive, as they contribute to developing robust strategies that help communities manage and mitigate wildfire dangers effectively. The integration of scientific insights, local knowledge, and community input ensures the proposed plans are practical and actionable.

Local Expertise at the Forefront

Leading the CWPP for Whitefish will be SWCA's team of fire planners and technical staff from Montana. This includes seasoned professionals who bring a wealth of local knowledge and experience, including former officials from Glacier National Park. Their skill set is invaluable in customizing the CWPP to suit the unique environmental challenges Whitefish faces, thus ensuring a well-rounded and effective plan.

Looking Ahead

As SWCA embarks on this significant project in Whitefish, it not only solidifies its reputation within the environmental consulting community but also reinforces the importance of local collaboration in wildfire management. By leveraging science-backed strategies and fostering community involvement, the firm is well-positioned to lead Whitefish toward a safer and more resilient future against wildfire threats. With this 100th CWPP, SWCA is not just marking a milestone; it's paving the way for enhanced security and preparedness in wildlife management.