It's all part of the Survivable Space Initiative, in which homeowners become active in maintaining area trees and vegetation, all while using fire-resistant building materials on their homes. Senator Thune says in the long run it's cheaper to be proactive than reactive when it comes to wildfires, and that's the message he'll take back with him to Washington.

Sen. Thune says, "It's always good, when you're making a defense or argument in support of a particular program that you think is effective and working, to be able to see it firsthand. So it's nice to come out here today and be able to visualize some of these areas where this has been accomplished."

Lieutenant Tim Weaver with the Rapid City Fire Department says he hopes Thune's visit will encourage more homeowners to take action to protect their property and families. For more information on preparing your home for wildfire contact your local fire department.

Zach Nugent