Trump Administration Freezes Wildfire Mitigation Funds, Halting Key Programs

The Trump administration has suspended funding for federal wildfire prevention programs in western U.S. states and paused hiring of seasonal firefighters, citing broad government spending cuts. The freeze impacts key programs aimed at reducing fire hazards in California, Oregon, and Idaho, sparking concerns from local organizations and industry leaders.

The Lomakatsi Restoration Project, an Oregon-based nonprofit, reported that over 30 grants with federal agencies, including the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management, have been frozen. Executive Director Marko Bey said the funding freeze forced the organization to lay off 15 staff and halt several active projects, affecting regional employment. Bey emphasized that 65% of their budget came from laws enacted under former President Joe Biden, including the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

The American Loggers Council warned that the freeze halted the $20 million Hazardous Fuels Transportation Assistance program, which funds the removal of dead wood from forests. Executive Director Scott Dane urged the administration to exempt forest management programs from the funding suspension, highlighting their critical role in wildfire prevention.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture, which oversees the Forest Service, stated that all programs were under review, while the Interior Department confirmed its funding decisions were aligned with executive orders. Senate Democrats called on the administration to release fire mitigation funds and exclude seasonal firefighters from the federal hiring freeze.

Grassroots Wildland Firefighters, representing federal firefighters, reported significant recruitment challenges due to the freeze, exacerbating an ongoing staffing shortage. Vice President Riva Duncan stressed that reduced hiring ahead of the summer fire season could worsen wildfire risks.

Dry conditions and fuel buildup have intensified wildfires in recent years, with President Trump blaming poor forest management for recent catastrophic fires in Los Angeles, where losses could reach $35 billion.