America’s Wildfire Crisis: Departing Firefighters and the Aftermath of the Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon Fire
With record-setting blazes becoming increasingly common, wildland firefighters are facing unprecedented demands. The Forest Service, the last line of defense against wildfires, is losing firefighters at an alarming rate of 45%, leaving the nation vulnerable.
The Exodus of Firefighters
Wildland firefighters endure relentless challenges: weeklong stretches away from family, a bureaucracy indifferent to health concerns, and a pay structure that incentivizes risk. The Forest Service acknowledges the attrition but attributes it to higher-paying job opportunities, particularly in specific regions.
The Devastating Aftermath
The Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon Fire, sparked by a prescribed burn, became New Mexico’s deadliest and most destructive wildfire. As of April 2023, FEMA has paid out only 12% of the $4 billion fund approved by Congress to compensate victims. Survivors have faced ongoing lawsuits against FEMA and inadequate support from the agency.
Health Risks and Accountability
Wildland firefighters face severe health risks, including cancer, respiratory disease, and hearing loss. Despite concerns raised by experts, the Forest Service has been slow to respond. Former firefighter George Broyles argues that the agency needs to be transparent about these risks and take proactive steps to protect its employees.
Lessons from the Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon Fire
The aftermath of the Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon Fire exposes the shortcomings of FEMA’s disaster response. The agency lacks the resources and expertise to handle large-scale disasters, leaving survivors in limbo. Attorney Antonia Roybal-Mack emphasizes the need for transparency, speed, and accountability to ensure that families receive fair compensation.
The Way Forward
Experts call for urgent action to address the wildfire crisis. They urge the Forest Service to invest in firefighter health and well-being, while FEMA must improve its disaster response capabilities. The nation must also recognize the role of rural America in disaster preparedness and provide adequate support to affected communities.
