U.S. Wildland Fire Service to Consolidate Federal Wildfire Efforts by January 2026

Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) have announced the creation of the U.S. Wildland Fire Service, a significant reform aimed at modernizing and strengthening the nation's wildfire prevention and response capabilities. This initiative, driven by President Donald Trump's Executive Order 14308, seeks to unify federal wildland fire programs and streamline operations, with implementation slated to begin in January 2026.

The announcement was met with positive reception, with the Senate Western Caucus stating via social media, > "Thrilled to see @Interior and @USDA build a streamlined approach to wildland firefighting. The creation of the U.S. Wildland Fire Service will modernize and strengthen America's wildfire prevention and response system." This sentiment underscores the perceived need for a more cohesive federal approach to wildfire management.

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins emphasized the urgency of the reforms, noting, “Time and time again, we have witnessed the devastating consequences of wildfires caused by mismanagement and a lack of preparedness." Secretary Rollins added that the departments are taking "bold action to modernize wildfire response systems" under President Trump's leadership. Concurrently, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum issued a memorandum to streamline capabilities and strengthen federal, state, and local partnerships.

The new service will consolidate all federal wildland fire agencies under the Department of the Interior, aiming to eliminate fragmented responses that have historically hindered efforts. Key reforms include establishing a joint federal firefighting aircraft service, standardizing the Emergency Firefighter Program, and building a unified Wildfire Enterprise IT System. These measures are designed to enhance efficiency and coordination across the federal government.

Secretary Burgum highlighted the strategic rationale behind the consolidation, stating, “For too long, outdated and fragmented systems have slowed our ability to fight fires and protect lives." He affirmed the commitment to "cutting through the bureaucracy and building a unified, modern wildfire response system" to safeguard communities and lands. The departments also plan to address firefighter welfare, with discussions around permanent pay reform and expanded mental health support for personnel.