Santa Cruz County is inviting residents and stakeholders to participate in a series of open-house-style public meetings designed to enhance wildfire preparedness and community safety. These meetings are part of the ongoing development of the Santa Cruz County Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP), a strategic initiative aimed at mitigating wildfire risks through collaborative planning and local action.

Background and Purpose of the CWPP

The Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) is a vital framework designed to reduce wildfire risks within Santa Cruz County. Established under the 2003 Healthy Forests Restoration Act, the CWPP encourages communities to develop comprehensive plans that facilitate state and federal funding for fuel reduction and fire mitigation projects. The primary goal is to foster collaboration among local and state agencies, residents, and stakeholders to implement effective wildfire prevention strategies. 

Santa Cruz County Emergency Management is leading this effort under a grant from the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management, funded by the United States Department of Agriculture.

Upcoming Public Meetings

• October 6 – Sonoita/Elgin Open House at 6:00 PM
  Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds
• October 7 – Patagonia Open House at 6:00 PM
  Patagonia High School
• October 8 – Nogales Open House at 6:00 PM
  VFW Post 2066, 653 Grand Avenue, Nogales, AZ 85621
• October 9 – Rio Rico Open House at 6:00 PM
  Rio Rico High School
• October 13 – Tubac Open House during the Santa Cruz Valley Community Council Meeting
  Tubac Community Center, 50 Bridge Road, Tubac, AZ

Santa Cruz County encourages all residents to attend these meetings, learn more about wildfire preparedness in their community, and provide input that will help shape the future of the county’s wildfire protection efforts.

For open house‑related questions, please contact:
Dave Richins
602.625.5162 | dave@southwestpolicyadvocates.com