Wildfire Coordination Act

The Wildfire Coordination Act would require the Secretary of the Interior to establish a permanent Wildfire Science and Technology Advisory Board. The Board would coordinate wildfire research across the federal government, translate research into practical uses, prioritize projects for operational deployment, and help connect researchers with field operations. It would include major federal agency representation (e.g., Interior, Agriculture, Commerce, Forest Service, FEMA, NOAA, CDC, EPA, NSF, NASA, and more) and up to 18 non-federal members representing state, local, and tribal governments, fire departments, private sector stakeholders, and wildfire/public health researchers and experts. The Act aims to promote multidisciplinary approaches, share findings widely (via newsletters, portals, webinars, etc.), and support the transition of research into real-world wildfire management. It authorizes $10 million in appropriations and requires a report to Congress within two years outlining activities, barriers, and future priorities.