Trump administration falls behind on wildfire prevention with risky fire season ahead
The Trump administration has significantly reduced wildfire prevention efforts, particularly prescribed burns, ahead of a potentially extreme fire season. The U.S. Forest Service managed nearly 1.5 million fewer acres in 2025 compared to 2024, following workforce cuts and limited environmental windows for controlled burns. Experts warn that the reduction in preventive measures increases the risk of catastrophic wildfires.
- ▪In 2025, the Forest Service conducted prescribed burns on about half the acreage compared to 2024 and 2023.
- ▪The Forest Service lost 16% of its workforce in the first half of 2025 due to government downsizing efforts.
- ▪Prescribed burns help reduce the intensity of future wildfires by clearing dense underbrush and dead vegetation.
- ▪Senate Democrats have raised concerns that staffing cuts are undermining wildfire preparedness.
- ▪Matthew Hurteau's research site in the Sierra Nevada, the Teakettle Experimental Forest, was severely impacted by the 2025 Garnet Fire after planned burns were delayed.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Climate Trump administration falls behind on wildfire prevention with risky fire season ahead May 4, 20265:30 AM ET Heard on Morning Edition Lauren Sommer Trump administration falls behind on wildfire prevention with risky fire season ahead Audio will be available later today. Setting low-grade fires, known as prescribed burns, can help clear out overgrown brush and dead material that fuels more extreme wildfires. In 2025, controlled burning fell by almost half under the Trump administration. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images hide caption toggle caption Justin Sullivan/Getty Images With wildfires already burning and drought persisting across much of the U.S., fire experts are bracing for what could be an extreme fire season. The U.S.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at NPR Topics: News.