The U.S. Department of the Interior requires an approved fire management plan for every facility with burnable vegetation. The region's National Wildlife Refuge System Fire Management Branch stepped in to help the hatcheries satisfy that requirement. During a two-year period, the region's fire management coordinator, fire management officers and others met with the staff at the hatcheries to gather information for their plans. Those visits also prompted the Fire Management Branch to clarify regional guidance on burning debris piles. Catherine Hibbard, refuge program specialist, wrote the 10 plans.