Rugged 4x4 Built for Interagency Operations

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 10:38:04 -0600

Interagency can be defined as "between or involving two or more government departments or agencies."

Eight different agencies make up the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC). As a current Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Public Affairs Specialist, the interagency concept is not new to me. This detail with NPS Fire and Aviation Management has exposed me to unfamiliar territory within this interagency collaboration.

NIFC is like an off-road 4x4 vehicle. All of the agencies make up the engine and parts of the vehicle. Each part operates a different function, but all of the parts together build a lean, mean, beefy machine that can climb any mountain in any conditions. NPS has provided me new perspectives in regards to the natural and cultural resources and values of which land management agencies strive for. The agencies at NIFC may not drive down the same roads, but wildland fire support remains their final destination.

Communications - Share the Responsibility

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 10:38:04 -0600

Effective communication is the responsibility of everyone regardless of your job description. Agency communication teams are the 'go to experts,' but all programs and branches need to be engaged. Without everyone's involvement, the communication messages will lack planning, consistency, efficiency and integration.

What would a rock band be without a drummer? Or a lead guitarist? A band needs all of the music components to perform and record tracks successfully. Would you listen to Def Leppard without Rick Allen's talent? Def Leppard just wouldn't be the same.

The same concept applies to an agency. How would the NPS Division of Fire and Aviation work without the branch of wildland fire? NPS Division of Fire and Aviation depends on all of the branches to communicate and work cohesively. Sharing the communication responsibility will create a culture where communication is valued, and effective communication is seen as a priority, in practice as well as in principle.

Good communications are essential to the success of a program. Good or bad communications can have a subtle, but serious impact on public confidence, staff morale and the reputation of the agency. Everyone's participation in the communications effort will help achieve agency goals as well as its mission.

NPS Fire & Aviation Blog - Jennifer Smith

Rugged 4x4 Built for Interagency Operations

Communications - Share the Responsibility