Valley Stewards Initiative

Valley Stewards Project Status

Napa Communities Firewise Foundation is in Phase I of the Valley Stewards Initiative. Securing the “Valley Stewards” (donors), identifying project locations, project development, and then land owner outreach. Within the next five years, we seek to raise approximately $12 million. A number of donors have committed already, making it possible for this work to begin in 2025 and estimated 20 completed projects by the end of 2026. Within 10 years, we will complete over 100 enhanced resiliency sites which will make a dramatic impact on Napa’s resiliency.

Economic Impact from Wildfire

The full economic impact of previous wildfires in Napa County is unknown. We do know that the 2020 wildfire season is estimated to have caused between $5 billion and $9 billion in destruction. We also know approximately 43% of Napa Cabernet grapes were lost, not including anything picked and discarded due to smoke taint. Some vintners have crop insurance, which can help with basic farming expenses, but it won’t cover all losses and we need to reduce the liabilities for decades to come.

Enhanced Resiliency Sites & Integration

The Enhanced Resilience Sites are vital to the overall Napa Firewise strategy as they help to create large areas of land with fuel reduction and resilience assets and capabilities to slow and improve fire containment. These are strategized in conjunction with CAL FIRE and designed to include elements that will integrate with first responders tablet command systems. In addition, enhanced resilience sites will be recognized by insurance carriers and integrated into Napa County’s Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP).

A Collaborative Approach

We’re bringing together landowners, government agencies, and private philanthropists to create a comprehensive solution. By combining landowner fees, targeted grants, and charitable contributions, we can identify and establish 100 Enhanced Resiliency Sites throughout the Napa Valley. Enhanced Resiliency Sites are built off the needs of local first responders, insurance agencies, and wildland management professionals.

The Napa Valley is a cherished sanctuary, a place where nature’s grandeur and human ingenuity intertwine. As a steward of this extraordinary landscape, I am compelled to contribute to its enduring resilience. The Valley Stewards initiative offers a unique opportunity to bridge the funding gap and bolster our community’s defenses against the ever-present threat of wildfires. By investing in proactive measures, we not only safeguard our physical assets but also preserve the intangible heritage of this remarkable region.

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