Many forest ecologists say the U.S. Forest Service is hampered by an outdated approach to prescribed fires, a key tool for reducing the threat of megafires made worse by climate change.
Montana fire officials are reminding the public of fire danger across the state approaching the Fourth of July holiday. The Flathead, Lolo and Bitterroot National Forests are all currently under moderate fire danger.
Western Montana’s wildfire outlook is still uncertain. Forecasters are watching the precipitation, but say significant wildfires remain a risk in Montana this season.
The governor’s letter says state officials have identified almost 4 million acres that are a high priority for fuel reduction work, 60% of which are on federal land. Gianforte says existing initiatives funded on both the state and federal level are helpful, but adds more must be done.
The three-year project is expected to treat over 10,000 acres of National Forest lands. Much of the work will take place where homes adjoin or intersect with forest land.
State officials hope the roughly 12% immediate raise, which brings minimum base pay to $15.50, will help recruit and retain more wildland firefighters.
Mario Tama/Getty ImagesMany forest ecologists say the U.S. Forest Service is hampered by an outdated approach to prescribed fires, a key tool for reducing the threat of megafires made worse by climate change.
Western Montana’s wildfire outlook is still uncertain. Forecasters are watching the precipitation, but say significant wildfires remain a risk in Montana this season.
