Could Forest Service Cuts Impact Oregon’s Wildfire Season?

Earlier this month, thousands of U.S. Forest Service employees were fired, as part of an effort to downsize the federal government.  Isabella Isaksen was among those let go… and says the positions lost support wildfire efforts and other important work across Oregon.

“Permits that allow for bike races and weddings and camping events to take place on public lands; ensuring sustainable timber and grazing practices. These are also the people who build and maintain the trails that you use, clean the restrooms.”

Isaksen spent almost two years with the Ochoco National Forest in Prineville, following seven years in the Army.

“To be honest, it was a dream job. And I felt as though it was a mission that I believed in, and I still do believe in.”

She says it’s unclear whether she and the others will be allowed to claim unemployment while they look for work.

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