The Barton Creek West Wildfire Committee and the Barton Creek West neighborhood were recognized as a national Firewise Community on April 22 by Will Boettner, Texas A&M Forest Service Wildland Urban Interface specialist.

"We are proud to join the other 65 Firewise Communities in Texas and over 1,000 in the nation," said Nancy Ward, chair of the Barton Creek West Wildfire Committee. "Our neighbors will continue to hear from us as we work to make this neighborhood as prepared as possible for what we hope and pray will never happen."

In addition to Boettner, the presentation included short speeches from state Rep. Paul Workman, R-Austin, Travis County Commissioner Gerald Daugherty and Ce-Bar Fire Chief Buddy Crain.

Boettner said he was there to recognize the fact that the committee and its residents have taken responsibility for the safety of the community's homes and neighbors.

"When people see the community is a Firewise Community, that's good for the real estate business, that's good for the homeowners and it's good for the property values," he said. "I want to commend you all for the work you have done."

For more information on the Firewise Community designation, visit www.firewise.org.