Extension Education: UW Extension Provides Disaster Education Resources

By: Jedidiah Hewlett, UW Extension Educator

As we have seen in the past year, disasters can be devastating and widespread. 

Ample spring moisture in many parts of the state provided grazing opportunities which later turned into a pile of kindling when temperatures rose and precipitation dropped off. 

In the aftermath of numerous wildfires ravaging over 800,000 acres in Wyoming, the University of Wyoming (UW) Extension team is committed to providing education for those affected by not only wildfires, but other disasters as well. 

As many Wyomingites are aware, winter storms can blow in overnight unexpectedly. An early spring may cause heavy runoff and flood waters arriving unannounced. Alternatively, how many times has the forecast for rain turned out to be little more than a false hope and continued drought? 

Crisis circumstances are never ideal, but having a response plan can be foundational for a resilient operation.

Before the disaster

The best time to prepare for a disaster is before it arrives. 

Those who have had the misfortune of experiencing losses because of wildfire this past year probably have valuable insights into what worked well and what didn’t during the emergency. 

For individuals who have not been directly affected by a fire recently, it is never too soon to start planning for a possible disaster. 

A good place to start is by asking, “What is the likelihood my disaster response plan would be successful?” 

Those who do not have a response plan should consider setting aside some time – even 10 minutes a day – to craft one. 

UW has compiled numerous articles and other information to help individuals prepare for a possible disaster like a fire. They can access these resources by visiting the UW Barnyards and Backyards page at the adjacent link or by following the QR code. 

On this website, people will find information on creating a fire-resistant space around homes and buildings, making an evacuation plan, pointers for managing resources on the ranch and more. Good records are especially useful to have before a crisis occurs as they are hard to invent afterward. 

Preparation may be the best protection for an operation and individuals’ peace of mind.

During the disaster

When a disaster strikes, there is very often little warning given. 

Staying up-to-date on the local weather forecast and conditions is a great first step to be aware of potential hazards in an area. Following a well-thought-out response plan is the best way to protect oneself and their interests. 

The UW Barnyards and Backyards page provides links to evacuation checklists, active fire monitoring maps and important dispatcher contact information specific to Wyoming. 

One will also find tools to manage the emotional stress that often accompanies traumatic events. The community can be a tremendous source of strength and support. Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance when needed. Those who are able should consider reaching out to their neighbors to lend a helping hand if they are dealing with a disaster. 

We must remember we are always stronger together than in isolation. 

Fostering a good relationship with a local emergency response team can help individuals become familiar with the personnel and operating procedures they use during a disaster.

After the disaster

Disaster remediation can take anywhere from a few months to several years. Immediate needs for food, water and shelter should take priority for both people and livestock. 

The severity of the wildfire or disaster will often determine what comes next. 

Although the immediate threat may have passed, there may still be hazards to watch out for, such as burnt trees, power poles or buildings which may collapse without warning. Individuals may also be worried about pasture regrowth, invasive weeds and grasses and wildlife habitat recovery. 

The UW Barnyards and Backyards page has multiple resources to help people make decisions about controlling erosion, reseeding, weed control, repairing infrastructure and clean up. 

They will also find a list of financial resources available for disaster recovery from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and other federal agencies. 

UW has published a booklet called “Living with Wildfire in Wyoming,” which some might find helpful. They can ask for it at a local Extension office today. 

All of our UW Extension personnel are dedicated to helping Wyoming residents thrive – drop in sometime to see how we can help. Just as geese rely on each other to go long distances, we can overcome challenges through unified efforts of mutual aid in a time of crisis.

Jedidiah Hewlett is the UW Extension agriculture and natural resources educator serving Converse County. He can be reached at jhewlett@uwyo.edu or 307-358-2417.