2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act
On November 15, 2021, President Biden signed the “Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA),” commonly referred to as the “bipartisan infrastructure law (BIL).” In addition to addressing issues with the nation’s transportation and utilities systems, the bill includes numerous provisions that support hazardous fuels reduction, forest restoration, and wildfire management.
To meet Congress’ desire for improved interagency data applications, policymakers independently identified the SWERI as an entity well positioned to assist in this effort. More information can be found in the project briefing paper and the ReSHAPE Facts at a Glance. The complete provision in the IIJA/ BIL can be found here Title VII Natural Resource-Related Infrastructure, Wildfire Management, and Ecosystem Restoration, Sec. 8003 Wildfire Risk Reduction (page 670-671)
The SWERI spent the initial months of the project scoping the purpose, need, and audiences for the ReShape Project. You can find the results in the initial Scoping Report.
The SWERI will follow the timeline and phases below to conduct this project.
Aaron Kimple
SWERI Program Director of Cross-Boundary Fire and Fuel Treatment Assessments and Application
(928) 523-3776
aaron.kimple@nau.edu