WASHINGTON, D.C., September 8, 2025 — Partners in Wildfire Prevention Communications Director Chet Wade issued the following statement as the U.S. Department of Interior and U.S. Forest Service reach the 90-day deadline set by Executive Order 14308, Empowering Commonsense Wildfire Prevention and Response:
“As wildfires grow in intensity, frequency, and reach across every region of the country, we need a strong, comprehensive federal plan for wildfire prevention that benefits Americans in all communities. We hope to see the Interior Department and the U.S. Forest Service increase coordination and collaboration between federal, state, and local partners to meet hiring targets and fill important positions – including federal wildland firefighters.
“While we’re encouraged to see federal agencies take some steps to streamline wildfire prevention programs, our nation must ensure adequate resources are made available to federal, state, and local responders. There is no substitute for sufficient numbers of well-trained, well-equipped, and well-supported boots on the ground.
“Beyond that, it is essential for Congress to build on this momentum and pass the bipartisan Fix Our Forests Act. This legislation will make critical updates to forest and land management policies while enhancing collaborative efforts among federal, state, and local officials. Lawmakers must listen to communities across the country and act now to protect Americans from wildfires.”
About Partners in Wildfire Prevention
Partners in Wildfire Prevention is a coalition committed to reducing the adverse effects of wildfires through prevention and preparedness. We believe we need a comprehensive national strategy that emphasizes community protection, wildfire prevention, responsible investment, and rapid recovery to effectively reduce the risk of wildfires. Our growing membership includes organizations from the public safety, labor, and business sectors, along with wildfire preparedness and community interest groups. For more information, visit preventwildfires.org.
MEDIA CONTACT: Chet Wade or Gwen Fuller
media@preventwildfires.org, 404-538-4220
