Many homes were lost to the 2007 Ham Lake Fire early this season. Many homes were also saved, thanks to wildfire sprinkler systems and people practicing firewise principles.

After the 1999 BWCAW Blowdown, many people obtained sprinkler systems through FEMA funding on the Gunflint Trail. A group of residents and business owners also attended a Wildland Urban Interface Conference, and returned with new knowledge on how to protect property from the future threat of wildfires. That group helped form the Cook County Firewise Committee, which is made up of county officials, fire departments, business owners, residents, and state and federal governments.

Using federal and state funding, the Cook County Firewise Committee helps fire districts obtain funding for dry hydrants, fire education, and complete property assessments. Firewise also assists with fuel reduction projects, such as the one in the Tait Lake area in Lutsen (which is almost completed) and Devil Track Lake area (which is just getting underway).
Firewise Assessment projects are being completed in the Gunflint, Lutsen, Maple Hill, and Hovland Fire Districts. The purpose of the assessment is to educate property owners on how to create a defensible space on their property to reduce the fuel hazards and better protect themselves in the event of a wildfire.

Firewise provides checklists for landscaping and construction. The lists include things such as fire-rated building materials, how to space out your plantings, protecting your zones, and maintenance. A separate list of suggested trees and shrubs available upon request. For information, email firewise@co.cook.mn.us or call (218) 387-3688. The Firewise website is www.boreal.org/fireinfo/