Wildfire prevention.
The Threat
Longer dry seasons and rising temperatures are turning routine farm burns into runaway wildfires. On the steep slopes of Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary, flames can rage for weeks, destroying habitat and driving wildlife population crashes.
How Fires Start
Most outbreaks begin on smallholder farms where bush burning is used to clear fields. Poor fire management, paired with ultra-dry conditions, allows sparks to move from farms into the surrounding forest.
Devastating wildfires destroy vital forest habitats, pushing endangered species closer to the brink. (© SMACON)
Our Response
We combine science, community action, and rapid response to keep the forest safe:
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Early-Warning System: Color-coded signposts guide farmers on the safest time to clear farm brush. Trained Forest Guardians manage these advisories, patrolling farmlands to supervise burning and provide rapid response to farm fires on high-risk days.
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Responsible Burning Support: Farmers receive training and tools to prepare fields without runaway flames.
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Forest Guardians: A 50-person fire-ranger team stands ready to contain fires before they spread.
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Boje community members with SMACON's fire prediction signpost
Impact
Since launching the Early-Warning Program in 2022, Afi Mountain has remained wildfire-free for four consecutive dry seasons, protecting endangered species and safeguarding local livelihoods.