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Battling Blazes: Wildfire Prevention and Ranch Resilience (Recast)

Wildfire season is heating up out West, and this week, we’re republishing a crucial conversation about fire prevention and mitigation with Jared Souza of Mirr Ranch Group and Jerod DeLay from the Wyoming Forestry Division.

First, Haley chats with Jared Souza, who brings his boots-on-the-ground perspective on how ranchers can prepare for wildfire season. Jared offers practical advice on safeguarding properties and reducing fire risks across the American West. Then, Jerod DeLay steps in with a broader view on fire prevention strategies, breaking down the essential steps ranchers must take to protect both their lands and livelihoods. From proactive defense to smart mitigation, this episode equips you with the tools to face wildfire season with confidence.

Tune in for this must-hear episode packed with insights to help you stay safe, resilient, and ready on the land!

Topics

[0:00] Introduction: Wildfire Season

[1:36] Jared Souza and the current wildfire season

[7:55] Fire mitigation strategies for private landowners

[15:40] Causes of forest fires

[21:12] Volunteering for the Wyoming State Forestry Division

[27:36] Jerod DeLay and the WSFD

[30:02] Cross-state communication

[34:22] Current environmental factors impacting the season

[41:52] Determining the source of a wildfire

[47:08] Community involvement and public outreach

Meet our guest, Jerod Delay

  • Jerod DeLay serves as the Assistant State Forester and Fire Management Officer for the Wyoming State Forestry Division, overseeing comprehensive wildland fire management and aerial resource programs across state lands. With over two decades of experience, including service with the U.S. Forest Service, he directs suppression tactics and fosters interagency cooperation for emergency response.
  • As Wyoming’s top fire official, DeLay coordinates statewide readiness initiatives and represents regional interests on the National Wildfire Coordinating Group’s Command Management Committee. He specializes in strategic leadership, resource deployment, and public communication during severe wildfire seasons.

meet our broker, Jared Souza

  • Jared Souza is a ranch broker and outfitter with a lifetime of practical ranch experience gained from living and working on ranches throughout the West.
  • Whether it’s understanding the key components of a ranch to ensure viable long-term cattle production or analyzing the recreational components for big game management on a property, Jared’s experience, trust, and good old-fashioned western “know-how” are crucial to his success.
  • For more about Jared, you can find his full bio here.

Watch the full video on our Youtube channel

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