Burnett Gulch fire contained after brief evacuation near Lyons
A small wildfire near Lyons, Colorado, was fully contained within 24 hours of its discovery, following a brief voluntary evacuation for residents in the foothills.
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Us Forest Service
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Trump Administration Moves to Rescind Roadless Rule, Threatening 45 Million Acres of Forests
The Trump administration has formally proposed rescinding the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule, a policy that has protected over 58 million acres of old-growth forests for more than two decades. This move would open approximately 45 million acres of national forests to new road construction, logging, and drilling. Conservationists warn that this rollback could accelerate the extinction of over 400 endangered species and jeopardize clean water supplies for millions of Americans. The administration argues that the rule is outdated and hinders forest health treatments and wildfire mitigation, while critics contend that roads increase fire risks and that the rushed 32-day comment period violates environmental laws. Legal experts predict significant court battles, noting that the administration’s justification contradicts scientific data showing lower wildfire frequencies in roadless areas.
Trump moves to repeal roadless protections, opening millions of forest acres to roads
The Trump administration proposes repealing the 2001 roadless rule, which bans road-building and logging in tens of millions of acres of national forests, a move opponents say could fragment habitats and threaten ecosystems. The proposal would affect more than 44 million acres (primarily in Western states) and is open for public comment, likely drawing legal challenges.
Fighter jet crash near Rimrock Lake sparks regional wildfire response
A military fighter jet crashed near Rimrock Lake in Naches, Washington, sparking a wildfire that prompted a coordinated response from local and federal firefighters, including personnel from the U.S. Forest Service.
Trump Administration Moves to Expand Road Construction in National Forests
The Trump administration's USDA is seeking public input for only three weeks on its plan to revoke the 2001 Roadless Rule, which protects 59 million acres of US forest land, raising concerns about limited public participation and potential weakening of forest conservation efforts amid proposed US Forest Service reorganizations.
Controversy Mounts Over Firefighter Staffing and Resources Amid Forest Service Reshuffle
President Trump's efforts to consolidate federal wildfire response agencies into a single entity face significant opposition from Congress and agency veterans, who argue that such restructuring could hinder effective wildfire management and prevention efforts, especially amid a severe wildfire season.
"Public Land in Colorado Preserves Epic Dinosaur Trackway"
The U.S. Forest Service has purchased three mining claims in the San Juan Mountains, making the West Gold Hill Dinosaur Tracksite in Ouray officially public land. The site features a unique sauropod trackway with 134 consecutive steps, including a more than 180-degree turn, and is one of the longest continuous trackways in the world. Hikers can now access the site, located at an altitude of 9,300 feet, and the Forest Service plans to raise awareness about it while ensuring it remains open to the public for generations.
UVM Student Dies in Tragic Tuckerman Ravine Ski Accident
Madison Saltsburg, a 20-year-old University of Vermont student, tragically died while skiing at Tuckerman Ravine on Mount Washington. She fell 600 feet to her death, while another skier with her is in critical condition. Two other skiers suffered serious injuries that day, possibly due to a change in temperature affecting the snowpack. The UVM community is mourning the loss of Saltsburg, who was described as a junior from Pennsylvania.
Tragic Death of Backcountry Skier on Mount Washington During Storm
A backcountry skier tragically died after falling 600 feet down Tuckerman Ravine on Mount Washington in New Hampshire, amid hard and icy conditions. The U.S. Forest Service reported that the steep bowl, known for its challenging terrain, had dangerous conditions due to firm and icy surfaces. Several accidents occurred, with one skier suffering fatal injuries and others sustaining non-life-threatening trauma. This incident serves as a reminder of the risks associated with snow sports, as industry experts advise awareness of changing weather and snow conditions.
Tragic Death of 20-Year-Old Skier in Mount Washington Backcountry
A 20-year-old woman died after falling 600 feet while skiing in Tuckerman Ravine on Mount Washington, New Hampshire. The area had hard, icy snow surfaces and open crevasse holes, leading to fatal and traumatic injuries for the skier and her companion. Rescuers also responded to two other skiers who suffered injuries from falling on the firm and icy snow surface. The U.S. Forest Service highlighted the hazardous conditions due to a lack of recent snowfall and cold temperatures, emphasizing the ever-changing risks in the area.
Tragic Accident Claims Woman's Life in Tuckerman Ravine
A woman tragically died after falling approximately 600 feet down Tuckerman Ravine on Mount Washington, while two other skiers suffered traumatic injuries from falling ice and rocks on the icy and firm snow surface. Responding teams from the Mount Washington Avalanche Center and U.S. Forest Service worked to evacuate the victim and attend to the injured skiers, with multiple falls witnessed throughout the day in steep mountaineering terrain.
"Rare 'Double Brood Emergence' of Billions of Cicadas Set to Descend on Multiple States"
Billions of cicadas are expected to emerge this spring, with two broods, Brood XIII and Brood XIX, set to make an appearance. A map from the U.S. Forest Service shows the expected emergence areas, primarily along the eastern coast of the United States and stretching into the edge of Texas. This simultaneous emergence is a rare event, last occurring over 200 years ago. Residents in these areas should prepare for the noisy insects and a significant cleanup afterward.
Progress Update: Matts Creek Fire Containment Reaches Over 50%
The Matts Creek fire in Bedford County, Virginia, is now 57% contained and has burned over 11,000 acres. Firefighters conducted a tactical firing operation to strengthen containment lines, and with rain expected, further spread of the flames is not anticipated. Crews will take advantage of the rain to mop up smoldering areas. The rain has also helped to clear the heavy smoke, resulting in cleaner air. Minimal smoldering and smoke impacts are expected in the coming days.
"Inside the World of America's Elite Hotshot Firefighters"
Hotshot fire crews, elite U.S. firefighters who battle the biggest wildfires in the American West, work in extreme conditions for long periods of time, often without access to basic amenities like showers or cellphone signals. They use hand tools and chain saws to carve out dirt tracks to control the spread of fires. Despite the dangers and low pay, hotshots are drawn to the camaraderie and the challenge of the job. A report by the University of Washington highlights the pay disparity between federal firefighters and their counterparts in state agencies, leading to legislation that aims to raise the base pay of entry-level federal firefighters.
"Massive Matts Creek Wildfire Engulfs Central Virginia, Health Alert Issued"
The Matts Creek fire in Bedford County, Virginia has burned over 10,000 acres and is currently 27% contained. The cause of the fire is still unknown. Firefighters conducted a successful strategic firing operation to remove fuel and decrease the risk of intense fire behavior. Crews are working to improve fire lines, patrol the area, and monitor structures. Weather conditions are expected to bring rain, which may help with firefighting efforts. Road closures and temporary flight restrictions are in place, and smoke is likely in nearby communities. Stage 1 fire restrictions are in effect.