The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) first Quadrennial Homeland Security Review (QHSR) is under way and presents an opportunity for collaboration within the homeland security stakeholder community. The QHSR is a congressionally mandated review of the DHS' policies and priorities beginning in fiscal 2009. According to a letter sent to stakeholders, the QHSR's goal is to "establish the foundation for homeland security activities over the next four years."

To garner feedback from the DHS' internal agencies, the public and external partners -- like state, local and tribal governments, and first responders -- Web-based dialog sessions will be held to address five topics, including:

• counterterrorism and domestic security management;
• securing the nation's borders;
• smart and tough enforcement of immigration laws;
• preparing for, responding to and recovering from disasters; and
• maturing and unifying the DHS and homeland security enterprise.

The National Academy of Public Administration, a nonprofit organization, will host the sessions. During the Web sessions, stakeholders will be able to voice their thoughts on and questions about the topics under consideration.

Stakeholders will be able to register for the sessions online, and they will be held:

• Aug. 3-Aug. 9;
• Aug. 31-Sept. 6; and
• Sept. 28-Oct. 4.

Based on the results, the DHS will produce a report that's due to Congress on Dec. 31, 2009.