This greatly expanded Fuels Treatment Program places primary emphasis on community protection, stabilization, and rehabilitation of burned areas and on community assistance programs that may be used to develop local capability and homeowner education. Costs for community assistance programs may be shared. Enhancement of local small business employment opportunities in rural communities and best value practices may be taken into account in selecting sources for contracts and agreements. In conducting fuels reduction, stabilization, and rehabilitation treatments, local contract personnel should be used whenever possible. Funds are also provided to the Department of the Interior for pilot efforts to assist rural fire districts to enhance their fire protection capability.
Assistance includes training, equipment purchase, and prevention activities on a cost-share basis.