By Jamie Martin
In a unified effort to enhance wildfire preparedness, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins and U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum signed a joint memorandum solidifying interagency coordination for the 2025 fire season.
The memo aims to strengthen collaboration between the two departments to ensure a rapid and effective wildfire response. The signing followed an operational fire briefing at the USDA Forest Service National Fire Desk.
"President Trump has directed the entire federal government to take immediate action to protect the people, communities, and the natural resources our country depends on from wildfire risk. Now more than ever, Secretary Burgum and I are working in lockstep, alongside our federal partners, to effectively combat wildfires," said Secretary Rollins.
"At USDA we are ensuring the entire Department is geared to respond to what is already an above normal summer fire season. We are providing the resources needed to ensure the Forest Service has the strongest and most prepared wildland firefighting force in the world."
“Our mission is clear: protect lives, defend critical infrastructure, and preserve the natural landscapes that sustain our way of life,” said Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum.
“Through unity, preparation, and the dedication of our firefighting workforce, the United States is ready to meet this year’s wildfires with strength and resolve.”
In addition to the joint memo, Secretary Rollins also signed a USDA Secretarial Memorandum outlining new strategies for wildfire response. This directive establishes clear expectations for the department’s wildfire efforts and authorizes staff across USDA to take on temporary fire assignments to increase operational capacity.
As May marks National Wildfire Awareness Month, the agencies are urging all Americans to take preventative actions. Whether enjoying the outdoors or working in high-risk environments, individuals are encouraged to be vigilant.
Maintaining defensible space around homes, following local fire regulations, and practicing fire safety can significantly reduce the risk of wildfire and help protect communities and first responders.
Together, through preparation and cooperation, the nation aims to face this wildfire season with greater strength and resilience.
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Categories: National