Development of a Wildfire and Climate Resilience Program

Climate change, development patterns, land management practices, and larger populations in high wildfire risk areas have increased wildfire frequency, intensity, and impacts throughout California. Sonoma County is no exception. Over the last 10 years, the county has experienced multiple catastrophic wildfires that have resulted in loss of life, extreme property damage, and broad economic and environmental impacts. In response to this risk, the County of Sonoma has initiated a range of projects and programs, including development of a comprehensive wildfire and climate resilience program. The County of Sonoma enlisted ERG to develop recommendations for the new program. 

In coordination with the County of Sonoma, ERG designed and implemented a collaborative process with subject matter experts, partners, and community members throughout the county to provide input for program design. To further inform recommendations, ERG is assessing potential and existing organizational models, community participation in those models, existing wildfire resilience efforts, and sustainable funding mechanisms. ERG will present final recommendations to the county’s Board of Supervisors in spring 2026. The County of Sonoma will use these recommendations to inform the design of a long-term, sustainable wildfire and climate resilience program that reflects the diverse needs of its residents.