USDA Ramping Up Wildfire Preparations

USDA is ramping up wildfire preparedness ahead of the 2026 fire season, directing the U.S. Forest Service to strengthen response efforts and protect rural communities.

Late last month, Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins announced a new Memorandum focused on increasing firefighter readiness, expanding risk reduction efforts, and improving coordination across agencies.  The plan emphasizes faster response times and enhanced forest management practices to reduce wildfire threats.  

“Under President Trump’s leadership, we have continuously implemented major reforms restoring active forest management, returning the Forest Service to a world‑leading forestry and fire management organization, and modernizing wildfire response and improving coordination across federal agencies," Rollins noted.  "This fire season we are prepared to continue our full suppression strategy to suppress fire starts quickly to protect our forests and rural communities.  This memorandum ensures the entire Department is aligned, prepared and focused on responding quickly and effectively to protect communities and the natural resources Americans depend on. Proper forest management remains central to this effort – reducing wildfire risk, strengthening rural economies, providing affordable, high‑quality lumber for American homes, and preserving the nation’s landscapes for generations to come.”

Officials say the strategy will also benefit farmers and ranchers by protecting grazing land, timber resources, and rural infrastructure.

“Wildfire response is a shared responsibility, and USDA will remain vigilant,” said Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz. “Our firefighters are prepared, our agencies are coordinated, and we will continue doing everything we can to protect communities and the people who defend them.”

With more than 28,000 responders and extensive aviation resources available, USDA aims to limit wildfire damage while supporting the economic stability of agricultural communities. 

Click Here to read Secretary Rollin's memorandum focus on the upcoming wildfire season.

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