As wildfire seasons get longer and dryer, the federal government is offering more funds to prevent, manage, and suppress wildfires.
BOISE, Idaho — Wildfire seasons are getting worse in length and severity according to the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC).
Wildfires burned more than 7 million acres of land in 2021 and more than 10 million acres in 2020.
In response to the growing threat, NIFC briefed Boise Mayor Lauren McLean Monday morning alongside US Department of Interior Deputy Secretary, Tommy Beaudreau, on what to expect going forward.
"Last year was one of the most severe fire seasons this county ever experienced. We were at the highest preparedness level fighting fire for 99 days, that was a record. Some of the outlook [for this fire season], it's still early on, is very similar conditions," Beaudreau said.
Congress passed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in late 2021 - it funds wildfire management programs to the tune of $8.25 billion. It's money that's necessary to keep a handle on wildfires out west according to Beaudreau.
"It makes substantial investments across the board, including with respect to treatment and trying to get in front of fuels that threaten communities," Beaudreau said.
A chunk of that money goes toward wildland firefighters themselves. Federal wildland firefighters will now make at least $15 an hour. More than 500 seasonal wildland firefighter jobs will also turn into year-round full-time positions.
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