Forest Service Prescribed Fire Program Faces Investigation Gaps

The Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon Fire burns south of Las Vegas, N.M., Saturday, May 7, 2022. Two years after the U.S. Forest Service sparked what would become the largest and most destructive wildf

Two years after the U.S. Forest Service initiated a prescribed fire that led to the largest wildfire in New Mexico's history, independent investigators have identified gaps that need to be addressed for the agency to effectively use prescribed fire as a risk reduction tool in the face of climate change.

The Government Accountability Office conducted an investigation at the request of a U.S. Representative following the devastating Hermit's Peak-Calf Canyon Fire in 2022. The report highlighted 43 prescribed fire escapes between 2012 and 2021 out of 50,000 projects, spanning across national forests in multiple states.

With plans to increase prescribed burn operations over the next decade, it is crucial for the Forest Service and other land management agencies to prioritize safety. The agency ignites around 4,500 prescribed fires annually, covering approximately 1.3 million acres to reduce fuel buildup in forests.

While the Forest Service has made progress in implementing some recommended changes post the Hermit's Peak-Calf Canyon Fire, the GAO identified important gaps that still need to be addressed. The agency has committed to creating and executing a corrective action plan to enhance safety measures.

43 prescribed fire escapes noted out of 50,000 projects from 2012-2021.

Prescribed fire led to New Mexico's largest wildfire, prompting investigation.

Forest Service plans to increase prescribed burns, covering 1.3 million acres annually.

Forest Service Chief Randy Moore emphasized the agency's efforts to reduce wildfire risk through various means, including offering more training for specialized crews in prescribed burn operations. However, there have been challenges in meeting project deadlines and prioritizing high-risk communities.

The GAO recommended that the Forest Service develop a comprehensive plan for implementing reforms, establish measurable goals, allocate sufficient resources for managing the reform effort, and address cultural changes within the agency. The urgency for change is underscored by the increasing severity and cost of wildfires, which pose significant threats to communities.

As wildfires continue to escalate in intensity and speed, stakeholders are hopeful that swift action will be taken to enhance the effectiveness and safety of prescribed fire programs. The Forest Service's commitment to addressing the identified gaps and implementing necessary reforms is crucial in mitigating the risks posed by wildfires in forested areas.