Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil (R-Jackson) is proud to announce the Amador Fire Safe Council as Amador County’s 2026 Nonprofit of the Year. This year’s recognition highlights nonprofits that help individuals, families, and communities navigate wildfire risk, hardship, and change while turning those experiences into lasting positive impact.
The Amador Fire Safe Council stood out for its commitment to wildfire resilience, community protection, and collaborative leadership in Amador County and across the region.
“Transforming loss into legacy isn’t just a theme, it’s about real organizations stepping up to protect communities and inspire the next generation,” said Senator Alvarado-Gil. “The Amador Fire Safe Council has shown what it means to turn wildfire risk into resilience through its fuel reduction projects, education programs, and collaborative leadership.”
The Amador Fire Safe Council embodies the 2026 theme, “Transforming Loss into Legacy,” by turning wildfire risk into inspiration, education, and lasting community resilience.
Through its leadership in establishing and supporting the Firewise Communities program, as well as through landscape-scale forest health treatments, strategically placed fuel breaks, and direct support to residents, the Council has transformed how Amador County prepares for and responds to wildfire risk. Its work transcends property boundaries, implementing projects across private, local, state, and federal lands.
This proactive approach has already proven its value. During the Tiger Fire, a fuel break constructed as part of the Tiger Creek Project played a critical role in slowing the fire’s spread and preventing a more catastrophic outcome.
The Council has also taken a leadership role in updating the Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) and revitalizing the Amador County Wildfire Collaborators group, ensuring strong coordination across the county. Through its pioneering Community Fuel Break Program, beginning with the River Pines project, AFSC has partnered directly with Firewise communities to deliver targeted, high-impact fuel breaks. This innovative model has already leveraged initial investments to complete multiple projects and secure more than $3.2 million in additional funding for critical wildfire mitigation work.
Through its dedication to collaboration, innovation, and community engagement, the Amador Fire Safe Council continues to strengthen Amador County’s wildfire preparedness, laying the foundation for a safer, more fire-adapted future.