Policy & Funding
New U.S. Wildland Fire Service and $6.55 Billion Budget Signal Major Restructuring of Federal Fire Fighting
The newly established U.S. Wildland Fire Service is requesting a $6.55 billion budget for 2026 — nearly quadrupling previous annual fire management funding — as the federal government restructures its approach to wildland fire under a consolidated agency model.
Policy & Funding
Federal Firefighting Staffing Cuts Draw Sharp Warnings from Oregon Lawmakers
Oregon's congressional Democrats warn that Forest Service budget cuts and the loss of over 1,400 certified firefighters could leave the Pacific Northwest dangerously underprepared heading into a severe 2026 fire season.
Policy & Funding
Oregon Congressional Democrats Sound Alarm Over Federal Wildfire Staffing Gaps Ahead of Critical Season
Oregon's congressional Democrats are warning that federal wildfire agencies could be understaffed and underprepared for the 2026 season, citing workforce losses, agency reorganizations, and the planned closure of the Pacific Northwest Research Station.