What is the current state of the draft legislation being proposed by Rep. Udall and Rep Salazar?

    We have been going through all of the public comments we received and are considering those comments in a revised version of the bill.  We have not yet decided if we would send around this revised version for additional comments, or go ahead and introduced that revised bill.  But, either way, we will make sure we let people know of the revised version--either as introduced or as a second draft.

Will the legislation impact the  homeowners and residents of Summit County? How will it help?

    We heard from many private property owners and homeowner associations that they would like the legislation to include a provision that would address the risk to their private property and allow them to work with the Forest Service to access nearby Forest Service land to reduce the fire threats.  We are considering that input in our revised draft bill.  At this time, I do not have an answer on how specifically that will be addressed in the legislation, but know that we heard this input and we are considering it. 

How will the Federal Government help us prevent fire danger to our community?

    Representatives Udall and Salazar are working on their proposed legislation to provide additional tools to help reduce the fire danger due to beetles and other insects.  The Healthy Forest Restoration Act also provided tools and authorities to the Forest Service to reduce fire dangers.  Before that, there was the National Fire Plan to help reduce dangers.  So, both in the executive branch and the legislative branch, the federal government has been applying, and will continue to apply, resources and authorities--and expand on these as warranted--to address the fire threats.  For specific approaches to help reduce fire danger to local communities, I would recommend that people get in touch with the local Forest Service Ranger District.  In addition, people can employ Firewise techniques on their private property to reduce the risks around their homes and businesses.  Contact the Colorado State Forest Service for resources and advice in this regard.

What other ways might the Federal Government help local citizens to shape their communities during and after the Pine Beetle Infestation?

     I would suggest getting in touch with the Forest Service and/or the Colorado State Forest Service to help with this question.