Nevada County, CA — December 7, 2025 — The Wildfire Ready Coalition of Nevada County today announced the successful formation of 16 new Firewise Communities (FWCs) this year, reflecting growing resident engagement and a county-wide commitment to wildfire readiness. The Coalition continues to serve as a driving force in helping neighborhoods organize, plan, and take tangible action toward resilience.
The new FWCs span the entire county — from the San Juan Ridge to Grass Valley, Nevada City, and the eastern foothills:
- San Juan Ridge: Birchville, French Corral, Blind Shady, New School–Tobacco
- Nevada City region: Pioneer, Seven-Hills, Bloomfield and Cooper Community Association, Nevada City Co-Housing
- Eastern Nevada County: Russel Valley
- Grass Valley area: Timber Trails, Alta Hills, Squirrel Creek, Turquoise, Alta 49er, Mystic Mines, Hansen Lane (Chicago Park)
The Wildfire Ready Coalition helped two other expand, Washington Hill in Grass Valley and Salmon Mine – East Sages on the San Juan Ridge.
Hands-On Support Driving Results
Support for FWCs this year ranged from helping them submit applications to becoming reinstated after a lapse to expanding their boundaries.
“The Coalition’s grassroots initiatives, practical expertise, and commitment to bringing neighbors together are clearly reflected in all their endeavors,” said Evan McLenithen, Nevada City OES.
One new Firewise leader shared, “When I decided to form a Firewise Community in my neighborhood, I knew nothing about the process. I connected with the Wildfire Ready Coalition, and Jo Ann Fites-Kaufman helped me every step of the way. She conducted the drive-through site assessment with me and my co-leader, provided sample documents, invited us to workshops, and answered every question. I am incredibly grateful for her tireless help.”
Community Momentum
Nevada County residents increasingly recognize wildfire risk and the need for preparation. While the Firewise formation process is powerful, it is also complex — assessments, documentation, mitigation plans, and community commitments take time. The Coalition helps transform interest into action through mentoring, tools, workshops, and direct support.
This year alone, the Coalition delivered more than 15 public workshops and over 24 individual mentoring sessions, providing education, templates, procedural guidance, and long-term support for Firewise readiness and successful recognition.
About the Wildfire Ready Coalition of Nevada County
Wildfire Ready Coalition of Nevada County is a volunteer-driven nonprofit empowering neighborhoods with wildfire education, Firewise formation support, defensible space readiness tools, and collaborative mitigation strategies. The coalition’s mission is to move communities from awareness to action, reducing wildfire risk while strengthening neighbor-to-neighbor resilience. Website: www.wildfirereadync.org