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About SPAWP

Frequently Asked Questions

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General

SPAWP — the Spanish Peaks Alliance for Wildfire Protection — is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works to reduce wildfire risk across Southern Colorado through grant-funded mitigation projects, community education, and the Neighborhood Ambassador Program. We’re based in La Veta, CO and serve communities across seven counties.

SPAWP was formed in the aftermath of the 2018 Spring Creek Fire, which burned over 108,000 acres. Community members came together to create an organization dedicated to proactive wildfire preparation.

No. SPAWP is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit. We work closely with agencies like CSFS, USFS, and local counties, but we are community-based and run by volunteers and a small staff.

Our mitigation projects are concentrated in Huerfano, Las Animas, and Costilla counties. Our Ambassador Program and outreach extend across seven counties: Huerfano, Las Animas, Costilla, Pueblo, Custer, Teller, and Fremont.

Wildfire Preparedness

A professional evaluation of your property to identify wildfire vulnerabilities. A trained specialist walks your land, examines your home’s exterior and landscaping, and provides a prioritized action plan. SPAWP currently offers free assessments funded by CSFS grants.

Yes. SPAWP’s 2025 assessments are fully funded by the CSFS FRWRM grant and made possible by donations. There is no cost to the property owner.

The area around your home where vegetation and combustible materials are managed to reduce wildfire risk. It’s divided into three zones: Zone 0 (0–5 ft), Zone 1 (5–30 ft), and Zone 2 (30–100 ft), each with specific actions.

Each county has its own alert system. Visit our Get Prepared page for direct signup links for all seven counties in our service area.

Programs & Volunteering

No. All you need is a willingness to learn and a desire to help your community prepare. SPAWP provides all training, materials, and ongoing support.

Many ways — from slash pile days to event logistics to professional skills like photography, writing, or translation. Sign up on our Get Involved page.

Completely flexible. Some volunteers help at a single event per year; others contribute monthly. You set your own pace.

Donations & Funding

Through a combination of state and federal grants, private donations, and in-kind contributions. Major grants come from CSFS, USFS, and BLM.

SPAWP primarily administers reimbursement grants — we help landowners access funding for approved mitigation work, but grants reimburse costs after the work is completed, rather than providing funds upfront.

Yes. SPAWP is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Your donation is tax-deductible to the full extent allowed by law.

Yes — equipment, professional services, materials, and meeting space. In-kind contributions help us meet grant matching requirements and stretch every dollar.