150: In Wildland Fire, It's All About Interagency Cooperation

Dan Smith is the Fire Director for the National Association of State Foresters. He is the Wildland Fire Representative for 50 states and 8 territories at the National Interagency Fire Center in Boise, Idaho. In this role, Dan works collaboratively with the Federal Wildland Fire Directors and serves as a member of the National Wildfire Coordinating Group, which provides wildland fire response on a national level. Dan shares leadership advice, some of the challenges the fire community is facing, and so much more!   Key Takeaways: [1:10] A message from Leadership Nature. [1:55] A quick intro about Dan's background. [3:25] How did Dan first get started in his fire career? [7:35] Dan shares a little bit of history about NWCG. [10:55] What are some of the best ways to get qualified in this field? [14:35] What kind of work is Dan up to these days? [17:40] Dan shares a little bit about his work history and some of the most memorable moments of his career. [21:40] What are some of the rewards and challenges of being in wildland fire? [29:00] Each fire has a lesson learned; how does Dan transfer those lessons into practical training for his team? [31:45] Where is the direction that the fire community is going and what additional challenges has the community come across, over the years? [35:00] Getting communities educated about forest health is an uphill climb. [37:50] Dan offers some leadership advice, wisdom, and tips.   Mentioned in This Episode: Nifc.gov Nwcg.gov Stateforesters.org