Which section in NIMS is responsible for identifying resource needs?

The Planning Section is specifically tasked with identifying resource needs within the framework of the National Incident Management System (NIMS). This section plays a critical role in overall incident management by assessing the situation, predicting future needs, and developing objectives to address those needs effectively. By gathering and analyzing information about the incident and resource utilization, the Planning Section ensures that the right resources are available at the right time to manage the incident effectively.

In contrast, the Logistics Section focuses on the actual procurement and distribution of resources to meet the operational requirements as identified by the Planning Section. The Operations Section is primarily responsible for executing the operational plans and carrying out the response activities. The Finance Section manages the financial aspects, including tracking costs and financial reporting, but does not focus on identifying resource needs. Thus, the Planning Section’s role directly aligns with identifying what resources are necessary to effectively manage the incident.