Arkansas Community Stories
Oden, Arkansas is located neaer Mena on Highway 88 that runs from Mena to Pencil Bluff. Lying on the banks of the Ouachita River, it provides a very scenic view of the river and mountains. There are many homes in the area that sit near or in woodlands, and these could very easily be affected by wildfires.
The USDA-Forest Service and the Arkansas State Forestry Commission, along with the local fire department, are responsible for wildland suppression in the area. Oden has a very active fire department. It also provides medical first responders to the local population.
When the Oden residents heard about the Firewise program in Montgomery County, they were eager to participate. They realized that fuel mitigation that is accomplished prior to a wildfire will affect its outcome. Residents are now receiving technical assistance and help with fuel mitigation projects because of the training and assistance provided by the Firewise program.
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