As a valued member of the National Wildfire Suppression Association (NWSA), you know that our industry stands at a critical crossroads. With federal contracting policies evolving, increased regulatory pressures, and the proposed formation of a National Wildland Fire Service, it has never been more urgent to ensure that private wildfire contractors are recognized, included, and valued in shaping the future of wildland fire suppression.
That is why we are launching the Wildfire Industry Protection Fund—a voluntary assessment designed to strengthen our voice, secure our role in the evolving national fire landscape, and protect the businesses that make up this essential industry.
Why This Matters Now More Than Ever
The current administration in Washington, D.C., has been actively discussing the creation of a National Wildland Fire Service, a move that could significantly impact how private contractors are utilized.
If we do not assert our role now, we risk being left out of future federal fire response planning, potentially losing access to contracts, fair wages, and opportunities to serve.
Additionally, the federal budget outlook, workforce policies, and agency coordination are all shifting. Without a strong, organized effort, the private sector may find itself on the outside looking in as the federal government determines the future of wildfire suppression.
The Voluntary Assessment Structure
To ensure fairness, this initiative is structured in tiers based on company size. While this is a voluntary assessment, we strongly urge all members to contribute at the level that aligns with their organization. NWSA is a 501 C (6) Non Profit Business Organization.
Tier Company Size Suggested Annual Contribution / Monthly Contribution
- Tier 1 (Single Resource) Solo Operator Annual: $350.00 Monthly: $29.00
- Tier 2 (Small Business) 1-10 Employees Annual: $750.00 Monthly: $63.00
- Tier 3 (Medium Business) 11-50 Annual: $2,000.00 Monthly: $167.00
- Tier 4 (Large Business) 51 -150 Annual: $4,500.00 Monthly: $375.00
- Tier 5 (Very Large Business) 151+ Employees Annual: $9,000.00 Monthly: $750.00
Your Support is Critical
We recognize that every business operates under financial constraints, but this investment is about protecting your ability to work and ensuring our industry is at the center of national fire response discussions. The wildfire contracting landscape is changing fast, and without proactive action now, we could find ourselves fighting for relevance rather than leading the way.
Next Steps
We are asking ALL members to pledge their voluntary contribution by April 2, 2025. You can easily submit your contribution online at NWSA.US or contact us directly for assistance. Ask about making monthly contributions to reach your annual contribution level.
This is a defining moment for our industry. Together, we can secure a future where private wildfire suppression remains strong, competitive, and indispensable to national fire response.
Thank you for your continued commitment to NWSA and for standing with us in this critical effort.