Mass Layoffs in Trump Administration Heighten Wildfire Risks Across Western US

Recent Trump administration employment cuts especially at US Forest Service bring doubts to America’s ability to stop and contain wildfires in its western states. People believe the leadership dismissed these workers at a poor time because California faced severe wildfire outbreaks.

The US Forest Service partnership coordinator Tanya Torst from Chico, California lost her job on February 14. Following her achievement in getting $12 million for forest management work in Mendocino National Forest, Tanya Torst highlighted the dangerous effect of these employment cuts. She voices her fears because her home town saw 85 people lose their lives to the Paradise fire of 2018 next to Chico.

The department lost many employees who conducted key wildfire protection activities through trail upkeep and the removal of flammable material while supporting fire crews. Reducing staff numbers comes at a dangerous moment because western states face worsening wildfires caused by climate change which makes weather hotter and drier. 

Authorities predict that fewer budget allocations and workers for fire protection could spawn stronger wildfires throughout the US West-region threatening numerous communities and their ability to control future wildfire risks.

Also Read | Trump Administration Cuts 1,000 National Park Service Jobs Amid Efforts to Shrink Government