Which NIMS structure makes cooperative multi-agency decisions?

The correct answer is the MAC Groups, which stands for Multi-Agency Coordination Groups. These groups are essential within the National Incident Management System as they facilitate cooperation amongst multiple agencies during an incident. They are responsible for developing and implementing strategies across different jurisdictions and agencies, ensuring that resources are coordinated effectively and that decisions reflect the collective priorities of all participating entities.

MAC Groups typically emphasize communication and collaboration among various organizations, which is vital during complex incidents where multiple agencies must work together to address challenges and allocate resources efficiently. This collaborative decision-making process helps achieve a unified approach to incident management, enhancing overall effectiveness in response and recovery.

Other structures like Unified Command, while important in coordinating operations among agencies at an incident site, focus specifically on ensuring that operational strategies and objectives are aligned at the tactical level. The Command Staff is primarily tasked with managing the incident command structure, providing advice, and coordinating information, rather than focusing on inter-agency cooperation at a broader level. The Operations Section is more concerned with executing tactical operations on the ground, which is crucial but does not encompass the level of multi-agency decision-making that MAC Groups handle.