Building Community Fire Fighting Capacity
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| Organization | Ya'axche Conservation Trust |
|---|---|
| Region | Belize |
| Website | Website |
| ProjectLeader | Megan Lopez |
Over the past couple of years, rural communities and protected areas across southern Belize have experienced an increased number of run-away agricultural fires and wildfires, which impact and have the potential to destroy farms, forest habitats and livelihoods. Through the capacity-building of local community members, educating local youth and provisioning of equipment, Ya'axche aims to increase awareness, responsiveness and preparedness towards the ever-increasing fire threats facing Belize.
Challenge
As climate change brings irregular rainfall and drier dry seasons to Belize, escaped fires are becoming more frequent and occurring with more intensity. This increase in fires poses a threat to livelihoods by threatening homes and communities, as well as the incredible biodiversity and natural resources found across the country. Lack of resources has prevented Ya'axche from educating local community leaders and equipping local community members to manage fire properly.
Long-Term Impact
By building capacity and providing equipment, fires will be met and put under control by local community members, which in turn will lead to fire-resilient communities.
References
Project Gallery
Managing fire in the Maya Golden Landscape
Effects of fire on the Maya Golden Landscape
Community fire training
Community members getting hands on fire training
Training local youth in fire management
Burned areas within the Maya Golden Landscape
Fire Awareness Post
Ya'axche and Benque community fire team
"Before" - Controlled Burn in Big Falls Village
