Lawmakers are taking action to combat the devastating impact of wildfires as the threat continues to grow in the Western United States. Sen. John Curtis, alongside bipartisan colleagues, introduced the Fix Our Forests Act to address better management and provide more tools to combat catastrophic wildfires.
The increase in wildfires in Utah and other Western states can be attributed to drought conditions and overcrowded forests, resulting in significant destruction and loss of life. In 2024, Utah saw the highest number of wildfires reported since 2020, with a national increase in acres burned by 231% compared to the previous year.
The Fix Our Forests Act aims to restore forest ecosystems, improve federal forest management efficiency, and combat the growing wildfire crisis. It establishes programs to reduce wildfire risks, streamline forest health projects, and enhance coordination efforts across agencies to combat wildfires more effectively.
Sen. Curtis emphasized the need for bipartisan cooperation to address forest management issues and prevent future devastating fires. The bill also includes measures to help communities in the wildland-urban interface build and retrofit with wildfire-resistant measures.
Various conservation groups and stakeholders have expressed support for the legislation, recognizing the critical need to protect national forests and wildlife habitats. The Fix Our Forests Act is seen as a crucial step in protecting communities, landscapes, and wildlife from the increasing threat of wildfires in the West.
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