The U.S. Forest Service has faced significant layoffs, with approximately 2,000 non-firefighting employees terminated as part of federal cost-cutting measures. Workers and officials warn that these cuts will severely hinder wildfire prevention efforts, particularly in the dry and hot conditions exacerbated by climate change. Laid-off workers, who played critical roles in maintaining trails and managing combustible debris, express fears about public safety and future wildfire intensity. Despite reassurances from the U.S. Department of Agriculture about preserving safety positions, the recent funding freezes for wildfire prevention remain a considerable concern.
Workers who maintained trails, removed combustible debris from forests, supported firefighters and secured funds for wildfire mitigation say staffing cuts threaten public safety, especially in the West, where drier and hotter conditions linked to climate change have increased the intensity of wildfires.
This is 100% a safety thing. That's why I'm speaking out,” said Tanya Torst, emphasizing her concerns about the impact of U.S. Forest Service layoffs on wildfire risks.
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