Wildfire Preparedness Initiatives in Lake Wenatchee

In preparation for the upcoming wildfire season, several initiatives are underway to assist Lake Wenatchee residents with property readiness. Winton MFG Compost Works will offer complimentary yard waste disposal services on May 16 and June 6, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Community members can drop off materials such as pine needles and brush at their facility located at 17400 Winton Road near Coles Corner.

Supporting community preparedness, Lake Wenatchee Fire and Rescue will hold an informational session on wildfire risk and home insurance. This event, featuring David Forte, Senior Property and Casualty Policy Advisor for the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner, is set for May 19. Attendees can participate in a Q&A following the presentation, addressing home insurance policy adjustments due to wildfire threats. The session, taking place at Plain Community Church, 12565 Chapel Drive, will run from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Additionally, Lake Wenatchee Fire and Rescue, in collaboration with the Cascadia Conservation District and the Nature Conservancy, will offer a women's chainsaw training course on June 12 and 13. The course focuses on teaching basic operational skills, maintenance, and safe handling of chainsaws. Participants should bring their chainsaws for personal instruction and wear appropriate safety gear. This event is limited to eight participants.

For those requiring brush removal services, Lake Wenatchee Fire and Rescue and Chelan County Fire District #3 are offering free chipping services. Residents of Plain and Lake Wenatchee can register for this service until June 1 via lwfr.org/chipping-program, supported by grant funding as the sole free offering of the year. Chelan County Fire District #3’s service registration extends to June 5, with inquiries directed to info@chelanfd3.org or by calling (509) 548-771.