This paper analyzes organizational systems dedicated to wildfire suppression operations. These systems are particularly complex, comprising a wide and heterogeneous range of agencies, operators, resources, processes, and operational practices. They are often described as “hybrid” structures, as they combine a hierarchical profile with a network-based organizational structure. The analysis, grounded in empirical investigation and a literature review, highlights the crucial role of the networked configuration of these organizations, which must manage complex interdependencies, especially during large-scale fires. In such situations, severe coordination and integration issues frequently arise, attributable to a form of “ network ailment” that these systems experience. In light of this, policy actions are proposed to strengthen the organizational network, both by providing shared resources and enhancing the connections between the “nodes” within it.
