In the context of the National Fire Plan, greater attention should be given to the engagement of communities in mitigating catastrophic wildfires. An overview is presented of a study in Western Colorado based on over 25 focus groups. This study seeks to discover improved ways to foster participation and ownership among local citizens and stakeholders in fire prevention and education efforts. The focus group process addressed local definitions of the 'wildfire problem,' community values placed at risk by wildfire, conditions and resources that would facilitate greater community participation in dialogue and action, and recommended fire prevention messages and methods of communication and education.