Firewise, Winzell earn recognition

Firewise of Southwest Colorado and Judy Winzell have received national recognition for their outstanding efforts in wildfire preparedness and mitigation.

Firewise of Southwest Colorado is the recipient of a Wildfire Mitigation Innovation Award – recognizing their effort to directly reduce wildfire hazards in their community. Winzell is the recipient of a Community Wildfire Preparedness Pioneer Award – recognizing her achievements and commitment to get neighbors and fellow citizens actively engaged with their fire department.

Firewise of Southwest Colorado and Winzell will be honored at a local recognition ceremony on March 24, 2015 at the Public Lands Center in Durango beginning at 4:30 p.m. Both will also be honored at the IAFC Wildland Urban Interface Conference in Reno, NV on March 25, 2015.

The National Association of State Foresters states that “these awards are designed to recognize outstanding service in wildfire preparedness and safety across a broad spectrum of activities and among a variety of individuals and organizations. By honoring their achievements, the award sponsors also seek to increase public recognition and awareness of the value of wildfire mitigation efforts.”