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Glossary of Terms

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National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA):
NEPA is the basic national law for protection of the environment, passed by Congress in 1969. It sets policy and procedures for environmental protection, and authorizes Environmental Impact Statements and Environmental Assessments to be used as analytical tools to help federal managers make land management decisions.

National Fire Danger Rating System (NFDRS):
A uniform fire danger rating system that focuses on the environmental factors that control the moisture content of fuels.

National Wildlife Coordinating Group (NWCG):
A group formed under the direction of the Secretaries of Agriculture and the Interior that includes representatives of the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Indian Affairs, National Park Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and National Association of State Foresters. The group's purpose is to handle coordination and effectiveness of wildland fire activities and provide a forum to discuss and resolve issues and problems of substantive nature. NWCG is the certifying body for all courses in the National Fire Curriculum.

Nomex®:
Trade name for a fire-resistant synthetic material used in the manufacturing of flight suits and protective clothing worn by firefighters. (see Aramid)

Normal Fire Season:
1) A season during which the weather, fire danger, and number and distribution of fires are about average. 2) Period of the year that normally comprises the fire season.