Earlier this month, the NWSA Executive Board traveled to Washington, D.C., to meet with congressional leaders, members of the Department of the Interior, and the new Chief of the U.S. Forest Service. Representing a vital voice in the nation’s wildfire response, NWSA delivered a clear and focused message built around our key priorities:
- Put the fire out first: A rapid, aggressive initial attack must remain the foundation of suppression. The closest capable resources should be dispatched immediately to contain fires safely.
- Establish stronger partnerships: Our presence would bring field-based insight into national coordination and planning.
- Secure long-term, sustainable contracts: Stability allows employers to retain their workforce, invest in equipment, and stay mission-ready. Year-to-year uncertainty only undermines preparedness and performance.
- Promote merit-based awards: Experience matters. Contracts should reflect qualifications, safety records, and operational reliability – not just cost.
- Remove training barriers: Current limits on course delivery and capacity hinder workforce growth. The private wildland fire service is ready to scale up if given the opportunity.
These points reflect the NWSA’s continued advocacy for fair and effective partnerships that strengthen the nation’s wildfire response. As NWSA President Claren Nilsson noted, “We wanted to introduce new leadership to our capabilities and make them aware of the size of response we bring to the table.”
Private wildfire services now deliver over half of all wildfire responses in the U.S. This force brings boots on the ground, cost-effective strategies, and ongoing innovation. The NWSA is committed to recognizing and supporting this essential role with the sustainable contracts and cooperative frameworks needed for the future.
This visit marked an essential step in building relationships with policymakers and ensuring they understand the private wildfire services industry’s scale, professionalism, and impact.
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