Beyond skill-building, the academy fostered a shared understanding of the importance of wildfire prevention, investigation, and compliance-enforcement across agencies in Alaska.
Spruce Moose and the 2024 Wildfire Prevention Academy Students and Cadre 
Group photo of the Wildfire Prevention Academy Graduates and Cadre 
Legal specialist Emily Feemstra mentors students. 
DNR Attorney Aaron Peterson oversees courtroom scenarios 
Kenai’s Lead Prevention Officer Bryan Crisp 
Primary Instructor Al Cain receives a thank you gift from Dan Govoni at Graduation
In a groundbreaking effort to bolster Alaska’s wildfire preparedness, the State of Alaska Division of Forestry & Fire Protection launched the inaugural “2024 DOF Wildland Fire Prevention, Investigation & Compliance-Enforcement Academy.” This pioneering initiative brought together twenty-two participants from a multitude of agencies statewide, emphasizing the paramount importance of interagency cooperation in safeguarding Alaska’s natural resources and communities from the threats posed by human caused wildfires. Through comprehensive training programs tailored to diverse backgrounds, the academy not only enhanced individual skillsets but also nurtured a spirit of collaboration and information exchange essential for effective wildfire management in a state as large, diverse and logistically complex as Alaska.
The defining feature of the academy was its immersive approach to learning, where by the end of the 10 day intensive, students were exposed to complex courtroom scenarios under the guidance of legal experts, subject matter specialists, and other professionals. By simulating real-world challenges and legal proceedings related to wildfire prevention, investigation, and compliance enforcement, participants gained invaluable insights into the intricacies of wildfire management and the critical role of inter-personal and legal frameworks in addressing fire-related issues. This interdisciplinary approach not only broadened students’ perspectives but also has equipped them with the necessary tools to navigate the complexities of wildfire management with confidence and competence.
As the inaugural cohort of students graduated from the academy last week, Alaska stands poised to benefit from their enhanced capabilities and expertise in wildfire prevention. With their newfound knowledge and skills, these graduates are well-equipped to help protect Alaska’s beautiful landscapes and vibrant communities. Their collective commitment to wildfire prevention work, supported by the collaborative ethos fostered at the academy, ensures that Alaska is better prepared to mitigate the threat of devastating human caused wildfires and safeguard the state’s natural beauty for generations to come.
The participation of agencies such as the Central Mat-Su Fire Department (CMSFD), West Lakes Fire Department, Butte Fire Department, McKinley Volunteer Fire Department, City of Anderson Fire Department, Kodiak Area Native Association, Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC), Wasilla Police Department, United States Forest Service (USFS), Chugiak Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department (CVFRD), City of Palmer Fire & Rescue, and Kenny Lake Volunteer Fire Department (KLVFD) underscores the breadth and depth of Alaska’s interagency cooperation in wildfire management.
- Central Mat-Su Fire Department (CMSFD)
- West Lakes Fire Department
- Butte Fire Department
- McKinley Volunteer Fire Department
- City of Anderson Fire Department
- Kodiak Area Native Association
- Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC)
- Wasilla Police Department
- United States Forest Service (USFS)
- Chugiak Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department (CVFRD)
- City of Palmer Fire & Rescue
- Kenny Lake Volunteer Fire Department (KLVFD)
By equipping participants with the knowledge and tools to identify and mitigate fire hazards, enforce regulations, and conduct thorough investigations, the academy empowers them to be proactive stewards of Alaska’s natural resources and public safety.
Special thanks to all of the instructors and legal experts who supported this inaugural academy.
Al Cain – Alaska Law Enforcement and Legal Specialist
Krystyn Tendy – Attorney with the Office of Special Prosecution
Aaron Peterson – DNR Attorney Department of Law
Emily Feemstra – Alaska’s Department of Law Assistant Attorney General
Wendi Shackelford – Retired 5th generation Law Enforcement Officer
Sam Braband & Chris Love – Alaska State Park Rangers
Dein Bruce – Peer Support Teams with the Anchorage FIre Department
Ethan DeBauche – DOF’s Coastal Region Fuels Specialist
Tom Greiling – DOF’s Statewide Safety Officer
Kristian Knutson – DOF’s Mat-Su Area Lead Prevention Officer
Kevin Lankford – DOF’s Mat-Su Area Fire Prevention Officer
Margaret Griffo & Cynthia Parkin – National Crises Response Canine Handlers
As a reminder, burn permits in Alaska are required from April 1st through August 31st. #preventwildfires #AKDNR
Categories: AK Fire Info, Alaska DNR - Division of Forestry (DOF), Fire Prevention, recruitment, Training
Alaska Wildland Fire Information 